techstar25's Journal: Apparently he drinks like a fish, too.

Swimmer Phelps charged with drunken driving
Posted: Monday November 8, 2004 5:05PM; Updated: Monday November 8, 2004 5:59PM

Michael Phelps won six gold medals in Athens.
Al Bello/Getty Images

SALISBURY, Md. (AP) -- Six-time Olympic champion Michael Phelps was arrested last week and charged with drunken driving.

A trooper saw the 19-year-old swimming sensation go through a stop sign Thursday night, state police said Monday. The trooper saw signs of intoxication and arrested Phelps for driving under the influence, police said.

Phelps also was charged with violation of a license restriction and failure to obey a stop sign. The legal drinking age in Maryland is 21.

"I made a mistake." Phelps told Sports Illustrated's Rick Reilly by phone. "I know it's wrong to get into a car when you've had anything to drink. I'm 19 years old and I made a big mistake. I was taught to take responsibility for your actions so that's why I'm calling."

The swimmer from suburban Baltimore won eight medals at the Athens Olympics, including six golds.

Phelps, wearing a Baltimore Ravens jersey, was introduced to the crowd before the team's game Sunday night