Pubdate: Sun, 24 Mar 2002
Source: Denver Rocky Mountain News (CO)
Copyright: 2002, Denver Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.rockymountainnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/371

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST DRUMMOND PLEADS INNOCENT TO DRUG CHARGE

Olympic gold medal runner Jon Drummond pleaded innocent Tuesday to a charge 
that he transported seven pounds of marijuana last year.

Drummond, 33, a member of the U.S. 400-meter relay team that won a gold 
medal during the Sydney Games, is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on 
the felony count April 17. He remains free on $20,000 bail.

Members of an anti-drug task force arrested Drummond Oct. 23 as he was 
leaving Los Angeles International Airport with a backpack containing the 
marijuana. Defense attorney Victor Sherman has said Drummond had no idea 
what was inside the backpack he picked up.

The relay team of Drummond, Maurice Greene, Bernard Williams and Brian 
Lewis were criticized at the 2000 Olympics when they preened and flexed 
their muscles during a victory lap and on the victory stand.

When they received their medals, the foursome clowned during the national 
anthem. Drummond later apologized.

Their conduct led USA Track & Field, the sport's domestic governing body, 
to begin drafting guidelines for behavior on the victory stand.

The USATF also ordered the four runners to speak to youngsters about what 
happened and the need to take responsibility for one's actions.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens