Fred Kerley arrested for allegedly assaulting ex-girlfriend ahead of track meet

In Florida, on Thursday, May 2, 2025, Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley was arrested at a hotel near Fort Lauderdale for allegedly assaulting Alaysha Johnson, his ex-girlfriend and fellow Olympic athlete. The arrest followed a heated argument that escalated when Kerley allegedly struck Johnson in the face, resulting in visible injuries. The incident occurred just days before Kerley was scheduled to compete in the Grand Slam Track event, which includes both 100-meter and 200-meter races. After his arrest, it was confirmed that he would not be participating in the competition this weekend. The police report details that Johnson was at the hotel for a conditioning appointment when she encountered Kerley. Following a heated exchange, she claimed that Kerley approached her aggressively, leading to him allegedly punching her with a closed fist, causing her nose to bleed. Johnson's injuries were consistent with the statements she provided to law enforcement. As a result of the incident, Kerley has been charged with misdemeanor battery, a serious allegation that can carry legal consequences affecting his career. This incident marks a troubling continuation of legal issues for Kerley, who has faced previous allegations, including a domestic violence charge earlier this year involving his wife. His attorney has claimed that Kerley is being targeted with unfounded accusations arising from rivalries within the competitive sports community. Kerley, known for his successes at the Olympics, including a bronze medal in the 100 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics and a silver in Tokyo 2020, now faces the additional burden of legal repercussions that could impact both his athletic career and personal life. The Grand Slam Track event, which Kerley was set to compete in, is a new track circuit aiming to provide a challenge to established events such as the Diamond League. With Kerley’s absence, the event will certainly feel the impact of losing an athlete of his caliber. Stakeholders in the sports community are likely to watch how this situation develops, the legal proceedings against Kerley, and the implications for his future participation in competitive events.