USA Swimming suspends Michael Phelps after DUI
Michael Phelps will be suspended from USA Swimming-sanctioned events for six months and will withdraw from next year's FINA World Championships in the wake of his September DUI arrest, USA Swimming announced on Monday.
He will also forfeit funding for six months.
Phelps was cited for a violation of the organization's Code of Conduct, specifically for conduct "detrimental to the image or reputation of USA Swimming, a LSC or the sport of swimming."
Phelps was arrested on Sept. 30 in Maryland for driving under the influence. He was reportedly driving 84 mph in a 45 mph zone.
In addition to DUI, Phelps has been charged with excessive speed and crossing double lane lines.
This is Phelps' second DUI arrest in ten years. The previous incident, which occurred when Phelps was 19-years-old, resulted in 18 months of probation.
In 2009, Phelps was suspended for three months after photos emerged that appeared to show him smoking marijuana.
A second conviction for DUI could mean up to one year in jail, a $1,000 fine and a six-month suspension of his driver's license.
Phelps said on Oct. 5 that he would enter a six-week treatment program.
The 29-year-old, who recently began training for the 2016 Olympic games in Rio, holds 22 Olympic medals, including 18 golds.
- Christopher Woody
