Olympic sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson has found herself in legal trouble off the track after being arrested in Florida for allegedly driving at more than 100 miles per hour.
The 25-year-old was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with dangerous excessive speeding, a violation that applies when a driver exceeds 100 mph or travels 50 mph or more over the posted limit. Court records show Richardson was booked at the Orange County Jail and later released on a US$500 bond.
Florida law treats the offence seriously, with first-time violators facing penalties that can include up to 30 days in jail or a fine of up to US$500. Harsher consequences apply to repeat offenders.
The arrest stands in sharp contrast to Richardson’s recent success on the world stage. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, she claimed silver in the women’s 100 metres and helped power the United States to gold in the 4x100m relay, cementing her status as one of the fastest women alive.
This is not Richardson’s first brush with controversy. Last year, she was arrested following a reported altercation with her boyfriend, fellow sprinter Christian Coleman, at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Video of the incident circulated online, showing Richardson striking Coleman during an argument. Although she initially denied the claims, she later issued a public apology. The case did not proceed after Coleman chose not to press charges.
Earlier in her career, Richardson also faced a major setback after testing positive for THC during the 2021 U.S. Olympic trials. The failed test resulted in a 30-day suspension, ruling her out of the women’s 100 metres at the Tokyo Olympics.
For now, the focus shifts from podiums and medals to the legal process, as the sprint star awaits her day in court over the speeding charge.
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