Ryan Wedding arrested: FBI confirms arrest after years on the run
New photo released of Ryan Wedding, former Olympic snowboarder wanted by FBI. Image Credit: FBI
Former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, once a proud representative of Canada on the world stage, is now in US custody after being arrested in Mexico following a years-long international manhunt. US officials accuse Wedding of transforming from elite athlete into the leader of a vast transnational drug trafficking network, orchestrating murders and moving enormous quantities of cocaine across borders.
The arrest marks the end of one of the most high-profile pursuits in recent FBI history.
Ryan Wedding Captured in Mexico After Multinational Operation
The FBI confirmed that Ryan Wedding was taken into custody in Mexico City on Thursday night and swiftly transported to California. His arrest was the result of close coordination between US, Mexican, and Canadian authorities, highlighting what officials described as a united front against organised crime.
Wedding, 44, had been on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives list, with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to his capture, one of the largest rewards ever issued.
FBI Director Kash Patel described Wedding as “a modern-day Pablo Escobar”, referencing the scale and brutality of the alleged criminal operation.
What Ryan Wedding Is Accused Of
According to US authorities, Wedding is accused of leading a multinational cocaine trafficking organisation responsible for moving an estimated 60 metric tonnes of cocaine per year through California and into Canada.
Prosecutors allege the network generated around $1 billion annually and was among the largest suppliers of cocaine to Canada. Wedding also faces accusations of:
- Drug trafficking
- Money laundering
- Witness intimidation
- Multiple murders, including the killing of a federal witness
The US Treasury has imposed sanctions on Wedding and 18 alleged associates, while at least 36 people connected to the organisation have already been arrested.
From the Olympics to Organised Crime
Wedding represented Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, competing in the men’s parallel giant slalom snowboarding event. Born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, in 1981, he came from a family involved in snow sports and briefly attended Simon Fraser University after his Olympic appearance.
In 2009, Wedding was convicted in a US federal court for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and served prison time before being released in 2011. Authorities allege that rather than leaving crime behind, he escalated his activities and disappeared from public view, eventually going into hiding in Mexico.
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Lavish Lifestyle Exposed Before Arrest
Investigators say Wedding maintained a flashy lifestyle while in hiding, despite being one of the world’s most wanted fugitives. In December, Mexican officials seized:
- Motorcycles valued at $40 million
- A $13 million Mercedes hypercar
The seizures were carried out with assistance from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Los Angeles Police Department, offering rare insight into the wealth allegedly generated by the trafficking operation.
What Happens Next for Ryan Wedding
Wedding is now being held in US custody and is expected to appear in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. An indictment against him was filed last year, and prosecutors are expected to pursue multiple federal charges that could result in life imprisonment if he is convicted.
Officials have not confirmed whether the $15 million reward will be paid.
A Historic Capture for the FBI
Wedding’s arrest marks the 500th capture in the history of the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted programme, which celebrated its 75th anniversary last year. Canadian authorities said his capture makes communities “much safer”, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations against him.
FAQ
Who is Ryan Wedding?
Ryan Wedding is a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who competed at the 2002 Winter Olympics and is now accused of leading a global drug trafficking operation.
Why was Ryan Wedding arrested?
US authorities allege he ran a massive cocaine trafficking network, ordered multiple murders, and laundered large sums of money.
Where was Ryan Wedding captured?
He was arrested in Mexico City after years in hiding.
Why was Ryan Wedding compared to Pablo Escobar?
Officials cited the scale, violence, and international reach of his alleged drug empire.
How much cocaine is Ryan Wedding accused of trafficking?
Authorities estimate about 60 metric tonnes annually, primarily through California to Canada.
Is Ryan Wedding now in the United States?
Yes. He has been transported to California and will appear in federal court.
What sentence could Ryan Wedding face?
If convicted on all charges, he could face life in prison.
Was a reward paid for his arrest?
The FBI offered $15 million, but officials have not confirmed if it will be awarded.
