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Posted: Monday November 16, 2009 2:44PM; Updated: Monday November 16, 2009 2:44PM

Austria to have 10-year prison term for those caught doping

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Austrian athletes caught doping could be charged with serious fraud, face prison

The penalties come in an amendment to the national fraud act

Austria's sports and justice ministers on Monday announced the amendment

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VIENNA (AP) -- Athletes in Austria caught doping could be charged with serious fraud and face prison terms of up to 10 years.

The penalties come in an amendment to the national fraud act, which is expected to take effect Jan. 1.

Under current Austrian law, possessing and selling banned substances are a criminal offense but not the actual use of the drugs.

Austria's sports and justice ministers on Monday announced the amendment, which awaits ratification by parliament this year.

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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