Olympiad Boxers Dodge Sexual Assault Charges, For the Time Being

Once again, the Olympics are gaining attention for something other than the competition. Following a string of protests from Brazilian citizen and evidence of doping for much of Russia’s team, two boxers have been released from jail. Both have their separate stories and conditions that come with being released.

The first is Moroccan boxer Hassan Saada, arrested a week ago for sexual assault, which by Brazilian law is considered rape. These charges could land Saada in prison for six to ten years. The claims levied against Saada are from two women part of the cleaning staff in the athlete’s village. One of the maids claimed that Saada forced her against a wall, clutched her leg and tried to kiss her, while the other professed that he fondled her breast while trying to solicit sexual acts from her for money. Once jailed, Saada lost his passport and the freedom to enter the Athlete’s village. He is unable to leave Rio de Janeiro until he has been further prosecuted.

The other boxer accused of sexual assault, once again considered rape, is Junias Jonas, from Namibia. He was arrested Monday after trying to kiss a maid and also solicit sexual acts for money. He was released from jail on Thursday morning so that he could participate in his scheduled fight. Mark Adams, an IOC representative asserts that he has not yet been convicted, and so is still considered innocent. He is likewise barred from entering the Athlete’s village. While Jonas did participate in his fight against Hassan Amzile of France, Saada has dropped out of his matches. While both have been charged with rape, the conviction has yet to be decided. Trying to leave the country would cause a much weightier charge to be held against them.

Featured Image via Wikimedia/Agencia Brasil