BALCO investigation

The BALCO investigation, which began in the early 2000s, focused on the Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative (BALCO), suspected of providing performance-enhancing drugs to high-profile athletes. Federal authorities uncovered a doping scandal that implicated various sports figures, including Olympic medalists and Major League Baseball players. The investigation revealed widespread use of substances like steroids and human growth hormone, raising concerns about cheating in sports. It led to greater scrutiny and enforcement of anti-doping regulations and changed the perception of drug use in professional athletics. The case highlighted the need for integrity and fairness in competitive sports.