Olympic champion Sha’Carri Richardson was captured in leaked CCTV footage engaging in a heated altercation with her boyfriend that ultimately led to her arrest last month.
The video depicts Richardson, a member of the USA’s Paris 4x100m relay team, appearing to forcefully push and confront her partner, Christian Coleman, also an American sprinter. The incident unfolds as the couple walks along a concourse, with Richardson grabbing Coleman’s backpack from behind.
In the footage, Richardson is seen pushing Coleman against a support column during what appears to be a tense conversation. Onlookers notice the commotion as the couple moves out of the camera’s view, then reappears heading towards security while Richardson continues to physically engage with Coleman.
Another angle of the video captures Richardson throwing an object at Coleman before walking away. Subsequently, Coleman is seen speaking with a group of police officers about the incident.
Following her arrest and charge of fourth-degree assault, Richardson spent 18 hours in custody before being released. Despite the altercation, Coleman decided not to press charges against her.
According to Port of Seattle Police, Richardson claimed the dispute began when Coleman took her headphones, emphasizing that it was a verbal argument without physical assault. Coleman spoke out in support of Richardson, expressing his belief that she should not have been arrested and describing the situation as challenging for both of them.
He acknowledged Richardson’s struggles and emotions, noting her resilience as an exceptional athlete. Coleman expressed confidence in her ability to overcome challenges and emphasized their strong partnership throughout the year.
