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Michael Phelps arrested on DUI charges

Michael Phelps

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 23: Michael Phelps of the United States looks on after winning the Men’s 100m Butterfly Final during day three of the 2014 Pan Pacific Championships at Gold Coast Aquatics on August 23, 2014 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

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Michael Phelps was arrested on DUI charges in Maryland early Tuesday morning.

Phelps, a 22-time Olympic medalist, was pulled over after driving 84mph in a 45mph zone. He “appeared to be under the influence,” and was unable to perform standard field sobriety tests, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

He was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speed and crossing double lane lines at about 1:40 a.m.

In 2004, Phelps was sentenced to 18 months probation after pleading guilty to drunken driving shortly after the Athens Olympics.

“We were surprised by today’s news,” U.S. Olympic Committee CEO Scott Blackmun said in a statement. “We are disappointed on a number of fronts, but want to give Michael Phelps and USA Swimming an opportunity to comment before saying anything more.”

“The news regarding Michael Phelps and his actions are disappointing and unquestionably serious,” USA Swimming said in a statement. “We expect our athletes to conduct themselves responsibly in and out of the pool.”

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