Allison Baver

Allison Baver, born on August 11, 1980, is a distinguished American retired short track speed skater who made her mark in the world of competitive ice sports. Joining the U.S. short track speed skating squad in 2002, she quickly established herself as a formidable athlete, earning multiple medals in ISU World Cup competitions. Baver showcased her versatility by competing in various events, including the 500m, 1000m, 1500m, and the 3000m relay, while training with the U.S. permanent winter sports Olympic team in Salt Lake City, Utah.

During the 2005–2006 season, Baver achieved a remarkable feat by ranking third overall in the world rankings, a testament to her dedication and skill. Her crowning achievement came in 2010 when she proudly represented her country at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, where she secured a bronze medal, solidifying her legacy in the sport.

However, Baver's post-athletic career took a controversial turn. In December 2021, she was indicted for allegedly defrauding the U.S. government during the COVID-19 pandemic, claiming fraudulent business expenses to receive ten million dollars. The indictment detailed that her company, established in 2019, falsely reported having as many as 430 employees and a monthly payroll exceeding four million dollars.

On June 29, 2023, a federal jury found Baver guilty of two counts of making false statements to influence a bank, one count of money laundering, and one count of contempt, leading to a potential prison sentence of up to forty years. In October 2024, her sentencing was postponed after her defense counsel withdrew, with the judge suggesting the possibility of an appeal based on ineffective counsel. As of September 2025, Baver has requested a new trial, marking a dramatic chapter in her life beyond the ice.