Former Olympic Gold Medalist Pleads Guilty In Capitol Riot Case, Likely To Serve Prison Time

Former swimmer and US Team Olympian Klete Keller has pleaded guilty to one of the seven charges that connects him to the US Capitol riot on Jan. 6. The 39-year-old gold medalist entered a plea bargain to one felony count of obstruction of an official proceeding Wednesday, offering to cooperate with the investigation in exchange for the dismissal of his other charges.

According to USA Today, Keller acknowledged his unlawful entry in the US Capitol building with the former Olympian most likely to serve prison time that could range from 21 to 27 months.

In February, Keller was indicted by a grand jury for knowingly and unlawfully entering and remaining in a restricted area, engaging in disorderly conduct and interfering with official government business during a civil disorder.

While the FBI has filed three charges against Keller, prosecutors have asked the grand jury to take into account other serious charges.

Keller was identified by federal authorities in photos and a video during the riot because of his noticeable height, standing at 6’6” and the Team USA jacket he was wearing at the time.

A criminal complaint from an FBI agent said, "(Keller) can be seen standing in the Rotunda still wearing the dark colored USA jacket, which also appears to bear a Nike logo on the front right side and a red and white Olympic patch on the front left side.”

Keller also acknowledged taking photos and videos while he was inside the Capitol and admitted to destroying evidence that could implicate him, which included the phone and memory card that contained the photo and footage as well as his Team USA jacket.

The five-time Olympic medalist for Team USA is one of more than 600 individuals that have been charged for their involvement in the Jan. 6 riot that injured 140 police officers.

It is not yet clear when Keller will be sentenced as US District Court Judge Richard Leon has not yet set a date for his sentencing hearing. Keller’s next court appearance is set for Dec.16.

With the grand jury returning four additional charges against him, Keller was facing a maximum prison sentence of 30 years. His jail sentence could be raised if Keller’s actions resulted in any injuries.

Some individuals charged for their participation during the violent riot are facing more serious charges, however many have not yet entered a plea. While footage has not captured Keller committing acts of violence, many rioters were caught on film vandalizing and looting inside the Capitol.