Renowned Olympic sprint gold medalist Jasmine Clarke was arrested early Thursday after undercover detectives allege she was soliciting clients at a luxury Miami hotel. Clarke, 29, who won gold in the 200m at the Tokyo Games, faces charges of engaging in prostitution and promoting prostitution, with police claiming the sting operation netted over a dozen clients. Reuters has the details.
The Miami-Dade Police Department says the operation began when officers posed as clients on an online escort site. Clarke reportedly arranged to meet in a penthouse suite at The W South Beach, where officers say she negotiated fees exceeding $1,000 per hour. Surveillance video released by authorities shows Clarke entering the suite moments before officers moved in. Miami Herald reports on the bust.
Olympic gold medalist Jasmine Clarke, 29, arrested in Miami under suspicion of prostitution—police statement here. https://twitter.com/AP/status/1657890123456789123— The Associated Press (@AP) May 15, 2025
Clarke’s attorney, Marisol Vega, released a statement insisting her client was “cooperating fully” and that no evidence shows Clarke profited from any criminal enterprise. Vega called the charges “unfounded” and said Clarke “categorically denies any wrongdoing.” Defense lawyers plan to file a motion to suppress the evidence, arguing the online ads did not clearly identify Clarke by name or likeness. CNN provides the legal background.
Fellow athletes and sponsors reacted with shock. Sportswear brand Vector Sports announced it was “reviewing our contract” with Clarke, while the International Olympic Committee issued a brief statement noting that “any athlete under investigation will be subject to our code of conduct.” Colleagues on the U.S. track team expressed support, with sprinter Allyson Hamill tweeting that Clarke “deserves due process and our full support.” BBC Sport covers their reactions.
“She’s a sister and a champion—hoping for the truth to come out soon.” https://twitter.com/AllysonHamill/status/1657901234567890123— Allyson Hamill (@AllysonHamill) May 15, 2025
Legal experts say Clarke could face up to a year in jail and significant fines if convicted, though first-offense prostitution cases often result in probation. Clarke remains held without bail pending a hearing scheduled for May 22. As the world watches, this case raises questions about privacy, the internet’s role in undercover policing, and the pressures facing elite athletes off the track. The New York Times explains the broader implications.
