(Headline USA) Five-time Olympic swimming medalist Klete Keller pleaded guilty Wednesday to a felony “obstruction” charge for participating in the Jan. 6 pro-Trump revolt at the U.S. Capitol and faces 21 to 27 months in prison.
Keller acknowledged in court records that he tried to obstruct Congress’ certification of the Electoral College votes delivering the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden.
The relay-swimmer brushed away officers who tried to remove him from the Capitol Rotunda and yelled profane comments about House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, as he stood near officers wearing riot gear.
Keller acknowledged throwing away the distinctive U.S. Olympic team jacket he wore during the uprising.
He also said he destroyed his phone and a memory card containing photos and videos he took inside the Capitol.
Keller, 39, who grew up in Arizona and now lives in Colorado Springs, competed in the 2000, 2004 and 2008 Summer Olympics. He won two golds and a silver as a member of the 800-meter freestyle relay, as well as a pair of individual bronzes in the 400 free.
He pleaded guilty to obstruction of an official proceeding and agreed to cooperate with authorities as part of his plea deal.
Adapted from reporting by the Associated Press
