Posted: Feb 23, 2012 4:30 PM by Michael Macias
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Olympic champion gymnast Paul Hamm has pleaded no contest to a reduced set of charges in Ohio, where he was accused of kicking a cab driver while drunk, damaging a taxi window and not paying a $23 fare.
The 29-year-old from Wisconsin entered the plea on two misdemeanor charges Thursday in an Upper Arlington court in suburban Columbus. A misdemeanor assault charge was dismissed.
A magistrate suspended a sentence of 90 days in custody on each count, provided that Hamm completes a year of probation. He also had to pay the cab fare, plus court fees, and must sit with a counselor for an alcohol assessment.
The city attorney calls it "a favorable resolution." Hamm's lawyer says the gymnast is now focused on preparing for the Olympics.