Judge drops Hope Solo's domestic violence charges

KIRKLAND, Wash., Jan. 13 (UPI) -- A judge on Tuesday dismissed domestic violence charges against Olympic soccer goaltender Hope Solo.

Solo, 33, was scheduled to go on trial next week on two counts of fourth-degree assault for allegedly striking her half-sister and nephew at her Kirkland home in June.

She pleaded not guilty to the charges and in December asked for her case to be dismissed. On Tuesday, a judge agreed.

Todd Maybrown, Solo's lawyer, argued the alleged victims had not cooperated during pre-trial investigation and said their stories changed about the alleged incident.

Solo said the judge's ruling brought closure to "one of the most difficult and emotionally draining times of my life."

"I always had faith that once the facts of the case were presented, I would be cleared of all charges and I am so happy and relieved to finally have it all behind me," she said in a statement.

"I am so grateful for the support of my husband Jerramy, my mother, grandmother and members of my extended family who surrounded me with love and reassurance each and every day. I would also like to thank my incredible fans who consistently sent positive, heartfelt messages of encouragement and kept my spirits lifted throughout this entire ordeal. I look forward to joining my team with a clear mind to train, compete, and help bring a World Cup title to the U.S. in 2015," she added.