(ATR) A Brazilian judge ruled Patrick Hickey can be released from Bangu prison while his case goes to trial.
Judge Fernando Antonio de Almeida lifted an injunction keeping Hickey in the maximum security prison today. A spokesperson from the Rio state court confirmed to Around the Rings that Hickey’s freedom was granted and the paperwork is in the hands of the State of Rio Department of Penitentiary Administration (SEAP).
Almeida said in his decision, seen by ATR, that "none of the three crimes," Hickey is charged with will keep him in a maximum security prison. Hickey was arrested on Aug. 17 and has been in Bangu prison since Aug. 20.
"The judge ordered the revocation of probation for [Mr. Hickey], so he will be released, but is prevented from leaving the country and must give the passport to the [relevant] authority," the spokesperson added to ATR. "That's the decision."
"Thus, there is not, concretely and objectively the need for protective custody of the patient,"Almeida added."We do not see that their [Hickey’s] freedom will bring any obstacle or risk to public order, criminal investigation and, if appropriate, future application of criminal law."
A spokesperson from Bangu prison confirmed to ATR that Hickey remains in the complex currently. Hickey’s release will be granted after paperwork is processed by SEAP.Itcould be up to two to three monthsbefore his case is heard in a courtroom.
"The bailiff must take the document to the prison unit," the spokesperson said.
Hickey has been charged with three crimes: ticket touting, forming a cartel, and illegally marketing the Rio 2016 Olympics. He could face up to seven years in prison if convicted.
Rio authorities say that Hickey and THG owner Marcus Evans and executive Kevin Mallon were working together to sell Olympic tickets allocated to the Olympic Council of Ireland at inflated prices. Mallon was granted release from Bangu prison on Aug. 27 after the state secured an electronic anklet to monitor his movements. A warrant for Evans’ arrest has been issued in Brazil.
In the wake of his arrest Hickey has temporarily stepped down from his Olympic family roles. These roles include his presidency of the OCI and European Olympic Committees, his IOC membership, and vice-presidency of the Association of National Olympic Committees.
Written by Aaron Bauer in Rio de Janeiro
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