The German Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated a preliminary investigation in response to cyclist Michel Hessmann’s positive anti-doping test result. A search was conducted at his residence.
The 22-year-old cyclist from Team Jumbo-Visma, who has already been suspended by the team, had his data storage devices seized. These events were communicated to the NOS news agency by the German Public Prosecutor’s Office.
“The preliminary investigation focuses solely on the mentioned person (Michel Hessmann) and not on others,” states the German Public Prosecutor’s Office. “Whether this will lead to a criminal process is still open and depends on the results of the investigation. The suspect will be heard before a final trial. It is up to him to prove his innocence.”
In several countries, the use of doping by athletes is not considered a crime, but this is not the case in Germany. An anti-doping law passed in 2015 criminalizes the use and administration of doping. Athletes caught using prohibited substances can face a maximum penalty of three years in prison, plus a fine. To date, no athlete in Germany has been sentenced to prison for doping use.
Hessmann, who is in his second year with the WorldTeam Jumbo-Visma, tested positive on June 14 for a diuretic. The out-of-competition test occurred on June 14 in Germany. The exact substance involved has not been disclosed.