Olympic medalist Fred Kerley has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor battery charge following an alleged altercation with his ex-girlfriend, fellow Olympian Alaysha Johnson, earlier this month in Florida.
The incident occurred on May 1 at a hotel in Dania Beach, where both athletes were staying ahead of a local track meet. According to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson reported that Kerley allegedly struck her in the face during an argument, resulting in a nosebleed. Police stated that Johnson’s injuries were consistent with her account of the incident, and Kerley was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree misdemeanor battery.
Kerley, 29, was released on a $1,000 bond the following day. A judge ordered him to have no contact with Johnson and to stay away from the hotel where the incident occurred.
In a statement released shortly after his arrest, Kerley acknowledged a “physical altercation” but denied any criminal wrongdoing. He stated that his arrest resulted from his decision to remain silent until his legal counsel was present. “While there was a physical altercation, my arrest was not due to any criminal act,” Kerley wrote.
Kerley’s attorney, Richard Cooper, supported his client’s account, asserting that the arrest was based on incomplete evidence. “We are confident that this case will be summarily dismissed shortly,” Cooper said.
This marks Kerley’s third arrest in South Florida this year. Previously, in January, he faced charges for battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest following an incident with police in Miami Beach.
As a result of the recent charge, Kerley has been suspended from participating in upcoming Grand Slam Track events, a series founded by four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson. The suspension will remain in effect pending the resolution of the legal case.
Kerley is a prominent figure in U.S. athletics, having won a silver medal in the 100 meters at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze in the same event at the 2024 Paris Games. Johnson also competed in the Paris Olympics.
If convicted, Kerley faces up to one year in jail. His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled, and the case will likely have significant implications for his career and legal standing.
