Michael Phelps DUI Arrest: Olympic Champion Swimmer Issues Gets Busted, Issues Apology
Michael Phelps was arrested on Tuesday for DUI charges after he was caught speeding in Baltimore with authorities saying that the Olympic champion failed field sobriety test that led to his arrest.
According to the Maryland Transportation Authority, Phelps was caught driving his 2014 Land Rover at 84 mph in a 45 mph zone. Officers were able to stop him near a toll plaza where authorities discovered that Phelps was driving under influence.
"Mr. Phelps was identified as the driver by his driver's license and appeared to be under the influence," the Maryland Transportation Authority Police said in a statement via ESPN. "He was unable to perform satisfactorily a series of standard field sobriety tests."
Phelps was taken into a transportation authority where he was charged with driving under influence of alcohol. Authorities said that the 29-year-old swimming champion was cooperative throughout the process.
Phelps, who was released on Tuesday afternoon, issued a statement where he confirmed reports about his arrest and issued an apology for his irresponsible actions.
"Earlier this morning, I was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines," Phelps said in a statement on Tuesday. "I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility. I know these words may not mean much right now but I am deeply sorry to everyone I have let down."
Phelps is widely considered the most decorated Olympian in history after winning 22 Olympic medals -- 18 gold medals -- before announcing his retirement after the 2012 London Olympics.
The swimming superstar then came out of retirement earlier this year and returned strong, winning three gold medals for USA at the Pan Pacific Championships last month, but USA Swimming expressed disappointment over his DUI arrest.
"The news regarding Michael Phelps and his actions are disappointing and unquestionably serious," USA Swimming said in a statement. "We expect our athletes to conduct themselves responsibly in and out of the pool."
Phelps was also involved in a similar incident in 2004 as he was caught driving under influence on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, leading to an 18-month probation and a fine of $250.
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