COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina authorities in the county where Michael Phelps was spotted smoking from a marijuana pipe say they are considering a criminal charge against the Olympic superstar.
Lt. Chris Cowan said Tuesday that Richland County sheriff's investigators are gathering more information about the photo, which showed the swimmer inhaling from a marijuana pipe.
Cowan did not specify what charge was being considered and declined to discuss details of the investigation.
The photograph was first shown in a British tabloid Sunday. News of the World said the picture was taken during a November house party while Phelps was visiting the University of South Carolina.
Phelps and his advisers did not dispute the photo's authenticity. He has issued a public apology.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
APNP 02-03-09 1155EST
Tuesday Afternoon Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott issued the following statement on the inquiries related to Michael Phelps:
"If someone breaks the law in Richland County, we have an obligation as law enforcement to investigate and to bring charges. The Richland County Sheriff's Department is making an effort to determine if Mr. Phelps broke the law. If he did, he will be charged in the same manner as anyone else. The Sheriff has a responsibility to be fair, to enforce the law and to not turn a blind eye because someone is a celebrity. "
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH