Olympic champion gymnast Paul Hamm pleaded no contest to kicking cab driver

By The Associated Press

CREATED Feb. 23, 2012

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  • Paul Hamm. | Photo: AP

COLUMBUS, Ohio- Olympic champion gymnast Paul Hamm has pleaded no contest to a reduced set of charges in Ohio, where he was accused of kicking a cab driver while drunk, damaging a taxi window and not paying a $23 fare.

The 29-year-old from Wisconsin entered the plea on two misdemeanor charges Thursday in an Upper Arlington court in suburban Columbus. A misdemeanor assault charge was dismissed.

A magistrate suspended a sentence of 90 days in custody on each count, provided that Hamm completes a year of probation. He also had to pay the cab fare, plus court fees, and must sit with a counselor for an alcohol assessment.

The city attorney calls it "a favorable resolution."

Hamm's lawyer says the gymnast is now focused on preparing for the Olympics.