DHAKA: US swimming star Ryan Lochte was charged by Brazilian police for reporting a crime falsely on Thursday (August 25), BBC reports.

Police chief has requested a letter to be sent to Lochte explaining the legal procedures related to the charges, said a department statement.

Tourist support special precinct officials have said that the 12-time Olympic medalist will be summoned to Rio.

However, there are options that will allow the six-gold medal owner to send a lawyer rather than appearing before court.

If convicted, the 32-year old celebrity swimmer could face up to six to one year in jail but the judge could fine him instead.

“There would be no space for negotiations in this case,” said Clement Braune, a commissioner of Rio tourist police adding Lochte will have chance to appeal any decision.

During the Rio Olympic game, Lochte and three other swimmers vandalized a local gas station on August 14 while being drunk but claimed they were robbed at gunpoint.

Later, security camera and irregularity in the swimmer’s statement revealed the truth.

Lochte, however, apologized publicly for his poor behavior.

BDST: 1644 HRS, AUG 26, 2016
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