Olympic field hockey player apologizes after arrest for allegedly buying cocaine in Paris
An Australian field hockey player competing at the Olympics has apologized after he was busted for purchasing cocaine in Paris earlier this week.
(NEXSTAR) – An Australian field hockey player competing at the Olympics has apologized after he was busted for purchasing cocaine in Paris earlier this week.
“I would firstly like to apologize for what has occurred over the past 24 hours. I made a terrible mistake and I take full responsibility for my actions,” Craig said, addressing the media after his release from police custody on Wednesday. “My actions are my own and by no way reflect the values of my family, my teammates, my friends, my sport, and the Australian Olympic team. I’ve embarrassed you all, and I’m truly sorry.”
Craig, 28, was arrested on Tuesday night in Paris’ 9th arrondissement, allegedly after buying cocaine from an underage dealer, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Nearby police said they had witnessed the transaction, ESPN reported, citing a statement from the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Just prior to his arrest, Craig and his teammates, as well as members of the female field hockey team, had been celebrating after being knocked out of contention for a medal at the Olympics, per the Herald.
As a result of his arrest, Craig has been removed from the Olympic Village, and will not be allowed to participate in the closing ceremony.
"I cannot condone what Tom has done. He is a good person who made a bad decision. But there are consequences for decisions like this," Australia's Chef de Mission Anna Meares, speaking on behalf of the Australian Olympic Team, said in a statement obtained by Reuters.
"Our team has been exemplary at these Games and his actions do not reflect the values of the team nor does it diminish this team's performance,” she added.
Craig was released from police custody with a warning, and will not face a fine or criminal penalty, ESPN reported.