Ryan Lochte Charged in Brazil; Twelve-Time Olympic Medalist Could Face Six Months in Jail for Fabricating Crime Report
Ryana Lochte May Face 6-Month Imprisonment in Brazil
Rio de Janeiro summons US Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte for filing fabricated crime report. The case stems from Lochte reporting that he was robbed at gunpoint in August 14. Tourist Support Special Precinct says that Lochte can send a lawyer if he is not personally available.
The early version of Lochte report
Earlier Lochte report stated that he was at the Rio outskirts with fellow swimmers Jack Conger, James Feigen and Gunnar Bentz when the robbery occured. Thereafter, he alleged that the armed suspect flagged down their taxi then took off with their valuables.
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Police investigation shows otherwise
Rio officials immediately investigate the high-profile case under pressure of embarrassment. However, later statements from Lochte's teammates revealed several different versions. The result did not coincide with the former reports.
Brazilian police later disclosed a missing piece of evidence with a footage from the CCTV that was taken from a gas station. The athletes went into a convenience shop nearby and "vandalized" several items. Then the watchman tried to stop them from leaving, asking them to pay for damages. The footage also shows the watchman drawing his pistol after the altercation.
Possible penalty against Lochte
One of Lochte's companion, James Feigen was still in Brazil when the case blew up. He was summoned by the court and paid almost $11 thousand before his passport was returned. Feigen left Brazil after settling his case.
Commissioner Clemente Braune says that similar decision may apply for Lochte. Otherwise, the penalty for filing false crime report in Brazil can range from a month to six months of incarceration. Depending on the judge's decision, this may also include community service.
Lochte may also receive sanctions from the US swimming team and the US Olympic Committee. There are no reports yet whether parallel investigation have been conducted.
Waiting for the case in the US
Lochte's attorney in the US says that they are yet to receive the summon from Rio. The same document is also expected to be mailed to the US court for coordination purposes. When asked about the details of the event, the lawyer refused to give statement or any information regarding the case.
On Lochte's part, several interviews mention the swimmer apologetically admitting that he over exaggerated his story. He also appealed to the fans and the Olympic host Rio for understanding. When asked about accusations of vandalism, Lochte declined to answer point by point.
The biggest drawback that the Rio incident for Lochte's career is probably his endorsement popularity. Several sponsors already rescinded offers for commercials from the 12-time medalist.
