© Copyright – 2025 – Athletics Illustrated
American sprinter Fred Kerley was arrested for allegedly punching his former girlfriend, Alaysha Johnson, in the face. She is also an athlete and was scheduled to compete in the Grand Slam Track Meet.
Johnson told deputies that she ran into Kerley at the hotel and the two began arguing. She said that Kerley was aggressive. He shouted, “I’m going to f— everyone in here up,” according to a Broward Sheriff’s Office report.
The two-time Olympic medallist admitted that there was an altercation. However, claimed that the arrest was made due to a misunderstanding.
On social media, Kerley, now 30, wrote that the arrest was not due to a criminal act. He said it was due to refusing to speak to law enforcement.
Kerley’s statement
“While there was a physical altercation, my arrest was not due to any criminal act,” Kerley wrote in a statement posted on his social media accounts.
“I chose not to speak to law enforcement without my attorney, and for that reason alone, I was booked.
“I remain fully committed to clearing my name and cooperating with appropriate parties to resolve it.
“I take full accountability for placing myself in a situation that allowed for this misunderstanding, and I am taking active steps to ensure nothing like this happens again.”
The alleged altercation occurred at Le Méridien Hotel near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Dania Beach. He was due to compete in Miami at the second Grand Slam Track meet.
Various media have reported that Kerley was charged with “battery-touch or strike” by officers from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.
He appeared in court the same day and posted a $1,000 bond upon release.
According to the arrest report, Johnson told the officer she was struck in the face with a closed fist. The punch caused her nose to bleed, after he had become aggressive and continued to approach her.
The report also said Johnson’s injuries were “consistent with her statements.”
Kerley and Johnson dated for six months but broke up last October 2024.
About Fred Kerley
The Friday, May 3, altercation and arrest are similar to a January 2025 incident where Kerley behaved aggressively with Miami police and was arrested.
Being involved in the sport of athletics saved Kerley from a criminal life. At least two of his brothers are in jail. His father was also incarcerated, and his mother is allegedly addicted to drugs.
Kerley holds a 9.76 personal best time in the 100m event. He has run the 200m as fast as 19.76. He earned a silver medal at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games in the 100m. He won bronze during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. He is a five-time World Championships medallist with three gold, one silver and a bronze. Kerley has won 12 Diamond League races over the 100m, 200m and 400m sprint events. Kerley was a five-time NCAA champion.
Kerley was featured in the Netflix documentary series “SPRINT.” He was one of the main stars. Also featured were top American sprinters like Noah Lyles, Gabby Thomas, and Shericka Jackson. The series follows their lives leading up to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
