(ATR) IOC and European Olympic Committees officials say Patrick Hickey should be returned to Ireland for medical treatment, but Brazilian authorities say they have no knowledge of this.
Hickey remains in Rio de Janeiro fulfilling the requirements of a Sept. 6 bail ruling. Hickey is required by a judge’s ruling to appear on the 20th of each month to a court of Ihla do Governador. Around the Rings can confirm that Hickey appeared before the court yesterday, but declined to make any statement to reporters present.
The appearances are part of the agreement for Hickey’s release from Bangu prison. Hickey is currently living in an apartment in Rio’s wealthy South Zone paid for by the Olympic Council of Ireland. He is not under house arrest, but has surrendered his passport to Brazilian authorities and has a late night curfew.
Concerns for Hickey’s health come as the timetable for his trial remains up in the air. A spokesperson for the Rio de Janeiro State Tribunal of Justice (TJRJ) confirmed to ATR that no date has been set for Hickey to appear before a judge.
As Hickey languishes Olympic officials expressed solidarity with him and hoped he returns to Ireland soon.
A statement from the IOC to ATR says they cannot elaborate on the current health status of Hickey, but agreed with the position of the EOC.
"The IOC understands that it would be preferable that the needed treatment is administered in Ireland," the statement said.
The EOC is meeting in Minsk, Belarus for a General Assembly. It is the first assembly of the EOC without Hickey as president since 2006.Acting EOC president Janez Kocijancic told the AP that he remains in contact with Hickey, and believes he should be moved to receive heart surgery. Kocijancic added he believes Hickey has committed no crime and a trial would reflect that.
"We studied all the relevant material and from all that we know, he is innocent, he didn't commit any crime," Kocijancic said.
Brazilian authorities told ATR they are not aware of any information suggesting Hickey could be moved because of failing health.
Hickey was charged with selling Rio 2016 tickets for the purpose of touting, false advertising, fraud, money laundering and tax evasion. Brazilian authorities describe Hickey as the head of the scheme, which includes sports hospitality company THG boss Marcus Evans and executive Kevin Mallon. Like Hickey, Mallon is awaiting trial in Rio.
Written by Aaron Bauer
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