In a shocking turn of events, U.S. Olympic sprinter Fred Kerley was arrested on Thursday night, May 1, 2025, at a hotel in Dania Beach, Florida, just days before the Grand Slam Track event where he was set to compete. The incident involved an altercation with his ex-girlfriend, fellow athlete Alaysha Johnson, who reported that Kerley struck her in the face during an argument.
According to the police report obtained by several media outlets, including TMZ and LetsRun.com, officers arrived at the hotel around 7:48 PM after Johnson, 28, filed a complaint stating that Kerley had hit her during a conditioning appointment prior to the track meet. Johnson alleged that during their confrontation, Kerley became aggressive, stating "something to the effect of 'I'm going to f*** everyone up in here,'" before allegedly hitting her once in the face with a closed fist, causing her nose to bleed.
Kerley, 29, was subsequently charged with a first-degree misdemeanor for touch or strike battery and was booked at Broward County Jail. His bond was set at $1,000, and he was released shortly after appearing in court on Friday, May 2, 2025. However, the Grand Slam Track organization confirmed that Kerley would not be competing in the upcoming event, where he was scheduled to race in both the 100-meter and 200-meter events.
"Fred Kerley was arrested last night. The matter is under active investigation, and all inquiries should be directed to the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Fred will not compete this weekend. We have no further comment at this time," a spokesperson for Grand Slam Track stated.
Kerley’s arrest marks the second time he has faced legal issues in 2025. Earlier this year, he was involved in a separate incident in Miami Beach where he was tased and arrested following a confrontation with police. He has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from that incident, which included battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.
The latest incident has raised questions about Kerley’s future in competitive athletics. As a two-time Olympic medalist, having won a bronze in the 100-meter at the Paris 2024 Olympics and a silver in the same event at the Tokyo 2020 Games, Kerley has been a prominent figure in U.S. track and field. His performances have made him a fan favorite, but these recent controversies could overshadow his athletic achievements.
Johnson, who is also an Olympic hurdler, was due to compete at the Grand Slam Track event this weekend. Details regarding her participation remain unclear following the incident, as Grand Slam Track has not provided further information on her status.
In the wake of the arrest, Kerley’s attorney, Richard L. Cooper, expressed confidence in his client’s innocence, stating, "We are confident that this case lacks merit and will be dismissed in short order." Cooper also emphasized that Kerley looks forward to returning to competition and inspiring young athletes.
Kerley and Johnson dated for approximately six months before breaking up in October 2024. The altercation reportedly occurred at the Le Méridien Dania Beach hotel, which is serving as the venue for the Grand Slam Track Miami event. Eyewitness accounts and police reports indicate that Johnson's injuries were consistent with her statements, further complicating Kerley’s legal situation.
This incident reflects a troubling pattern for Kerley, who has faced multiple legal challenges in recent months. In addition to the January arrest, he has been charged with domestic battery stemming from a previous incident involving his estranged wife, Angelica. Kerley has consistently pleaded not guilty in these cases, maintaining his innocence.
As the track and field community looks ahead to the Grand Slam Track event, the focus will undoubtedly be on the implications of Kerley’s arrest. Fans and fellow athletes alike are left to wonder how this will affect not only Kerley’s career but also the broader perception of athletes in competitive sports.
With the Grand Slam Track event set to kick off, the spotlight now shifts to Johnson and her performance, as well as the ongoing investigation into Kerley’s actions. The ramifications of this incident will likely extend beyond the immediate legal consequences, impacting both athletes' futures in the sport.
Kerley, who has also won gold medals in the World Championships and holds the sixth fastest 100m time in history with a personal best of 9.76 seconds, faces an uncertain road ahead. The outcome of the investigation and any potential legal repercussions will play a crucial role in determining his future in athletics.
As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, eager to see how this story unfolds and what it means for the careers of both Fred Kerley and Alaysha Johnson.
