Boxing sensation Ryan Garcia was taken into custody on Saturday on charges of felony vandalism. The Beverly Hills hotel where the incident occurred has accused him of causing damages estimated at $15,000, according to a watch commander from the Beverly Hills Police Department who spoke to ESPN.
The 25-year-old boxer was arrested at 5:45 p.m. following a call to the police by a driver who had dropped him off at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. The hotel decided to press charges when the police arrived, but the exact nature of the damage and Garcia’s behavior at the time is not yet known.
After being booked at the Beverly Hills Police Department jail, Garcia reportedly complained of a medical issue and was subsequently transferred to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.
According to Garcia’s lawyer, Darin Chavez, there may also be charges of public intoxication. Chavez later issued a statement explaining that Garcia is currently going through a particularly difficult time due to his mother’s health issues.
Chavez’s statement also highlighted Garcia’s ongoing struggles with mental health and the immense emotional burden he is currently dealing with. He called for understanding and support from fans and the public as Garcia navigates these personal challenges.
Garcia, who has a record of 25 wins and one loss with 20 knockouts, is also facing suspension from the New York Athletic Commission. This comes after he tested positive for the banned substance ostarine prior to his majority decision victory over Devin Haney in April, which was considered a significant upset.
Despite flooring Haney three times during the match, Garcia was ineligible to win the WBC junior welterweight title as he was 3.2 pounds overweight. The commission is expected to make a decision soon, which could potentially overturn his victory.
Source: espn.com