Smiling and signing autographs, signs of happier times for Lehigh Valley native, Olympic gold medalist, and world champion cyclist Marty Nothstein.
However, the legal way for the 55-year-to avoid potential jail time includes pleading guilty again. This time, to three misdemeanors stemming from a 2024 domestic abuse case in Bethlehem.
“This was a serious case, because it was a series of stalking allegations against Mr. Nothstein, and the victim was very much concerned about the nature of his increasing contact with her,” said Northampton County District Attorney Stephen Baratta.
He says Nothstein and his ex-girlfriend, instead, agreed to guilty pleas of harassment, disorderly conduct, and defiant trespass, with the DA’s office agreeing.
Nothstein is also paying $1,500 to the county’s Domestic Violence Fund, and paying $12,500 in restitution to the victim.
“This case was a negotiation between the victim and the defendant, not an indication of how we thought the case would play out before a jury,” Baratta said.
He adds that the trauma of a victim, and going through a trial, is considered in cases like this.
A statement through his defense attorney, Josh Karoly, says, “Marty was involved in a personal relationship that ultimately ended under difficult circumstances. He regrets his role in the situation and the decisions he made during that time. This matter, which dates back more than two years, has now been resolved. He decided to bring this matter to a close without any further unnecessary attention, and appreciates that it has now been concluded. Marty looks ahead to the next chapter of his life with a renewed commitment to his responsibilities and his community.”
In 2023, Nothstein pleaded guilty in Lehigh County to defiant trespass for entering the home of another ex-girlfriend.
During his 2018 run for Congress, it was reported he was under investigation by SafeSport, part of the U.S. Olympic Committee, looking into allegations of sexual misconduct.
Despite charges never being filed, and Nothstein maintaining his innocence, he was removed as executive director of Valley Preferred Cycling Center.
He lost that congressional race to Susan Wild, and his bid to be re-elected as a Lehigh County commissioner in 2019.
“The most important message that I want to give to victims is that this office treats domestic violence very seriously, and our mission is to make sure that they’re protected and they have a just outcome,” Baratta said.
Nothstein will remain on two years probation.