WASHINGTON -- Klete Keller, five-time Olympic swimmer medalist, pleaded guilty Wednesday in a felony case for storming the U.S. Capitol during Jan. 6'riot. He faces 21 to 27 month imprisonment.
Keller admitted in court records that he attempted to obstruct Congress' certification for President Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory. He brushed aside officers trying to remove him from Capitol Rotunda, and yelled profane remarks about House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as well as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer while standing near officers wearing riot gear.
He also admitted to throwing out the U.S. Olympic team jacket he wore in the riot, and destroying his memory card and phone with photos and videos he took inside Capitol.
Keller, 39, a native of Arizona who now resides in Colorado Springs, participated in the 2000, 2004, and 2008 Summer Olympics. As a member the 800-meter freestyle relay, he won two golds as well as a silver. He also took home a pair individual bronzes in 400 free.
As part of his plea bargain, he pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate.
