Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley denies assault, says he’ll see ex-girlfriend in court over defamation

Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley is vigorously denying allegations that he punched his ex-girlfriend, fellow U.S. track athlete Alaysha Johnson, in a Miami hotel earlier this month. Kerley was arrested on May 1 and charged with misdemeanor battery after Johnson accused him of striking her in the face, causing a nosebleed.Kerley pleaded not guilty in court on May 3 and, through his attorney Richard Cooper, announced plans to contest the charges vigorously. Kerley also intends to sue Johnson for defamation, calling the accusations “completely false” and damaging to his reputation.Kerley’s statement highlighted his refusal to speak to police without legal counsel:“What’s being said about me isn’t just false, it’s damaging, and I’m standing up for the truth.”His attorney maintains that Kerley was actually the victim during the altercation and expects the charges to be dismissed soon. Cooper asked fans and sponsors for patience as the investigation proceeds.Following his arrest, Kerley was immediately suspended from the Michael Johnson Grand Slam Track event in Miami and also removed from an upcoming Philadelphia meet. Organizers confirmed the decision as the case remains under investigation.Also read: Fred Kerley disputes claims after arrest for allegedly hitting ex-girlfriendThis incident comes amid a series of legal troubles for Kerley. Earlier this year, he was arrested in Miami Beach after a confrontation with police and faced charges including battery against an officer. In May 2024, Kerley was accused of domestic violence by strangulation by his estranged wife, allegations his lawyer denies.Kerley has not been convicted on any charges and continues to maintain his innocence. The misdemeanor battery charge carries a potential penalty of up to one year in jail if he is found guilty. While maintaining his innocence, his legal team prepares to battle the allegations in court to undo the damage to his reputation, with his career and legacy hanging in the balance as public scrutiny intensifies.