KINGSTON, Jamaica — Sprinter Jason Livermore has been banned for two years for violating the rules of Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO).

The verdict was handed down by judge, Kent Gammon, chairman of the Independent Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel.

Gammon said based on evidence presented to the committee, they did not believe Livermore intended to take the substance to enhance his athletic performance but was negligent in applying for Therapeutic Use Exception (TUE).

As such he will be ineligible to compete for two years, starting February when he was charged. The Commonwealth Games 200 metre bronze medallist violated JADCO Article 2.1 rule, which refers to the “presence of a prohibited substance or its metabolites or markers in an athlete’s sample”.

Two anabolic steroids, Clomifhene and Mestorolone (metabolites) were found in Livermore’s urine samples in December 2016.

Clomifhene and Mestorolone are linked to the enhancement of low sperm quality in male and is also a medication used to treat infertility in women who do not ovulate.

Livemore revealed he was taking the medications from November 29, 2016 to treat a “life threatening” situation.

The Akan Track Club athlete noted he had to think ahead of athletics and wants a family, hence the treatment was necessary.

Deandra Morrison