Former Canadian Olympic Snowboarder Charged with Leading International Cocaine Trafficking Ring, Linked to Multiple Murders
Ryan James Wedding, once a celebrated snowboarder representing Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics, is now at the center of a high-profile drug trafficking and murder investigation spanning multiple countries. U.S. authorities revealed that Wedding, 43, is wanted for his alleged role in an international cocaine distribution ring, which trafficked vast amounts of drugs across the Americas. Additionally, the group is linked to several murders.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles, Wedding's criminal enterprise is accused of moving approximately 60 tons of cocaine annually from Colombia through Mexico and California to Canada and other U.S. locations, using long-haul trucks. Authorities describe Wedding as the mastermind of the operation, and he's been charged with conspiring to distribute cocaine, leading a criminal enterprise, and committing multiple murders.
The case involves 16 individuals, four of whom, including Wedding, remain fugitives. A $50,000 reward is offered by the FBI for any information leading to Wedding's arrest and extradition.
U.S. officials allege the group was responsible for several killings, including the mistaken identity murder of two family members in Canada over a stolen drug shipment. Investigators seized large quantities of cocaine, weapons, and over $3 million in cryptocurrency.
Wedding has a criminal history dating back to 2010, when he was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the U.S. and served prison time. Following his release, authorities believe he resumed his illicit activities, this time operating under the protection of the infamous Sinaloa cartel in Mexico.
His drug-related legal troubles are not new, with unresolved charges in Canada stemming from a 2015 case, further entangling his criminal past.
The unfolding story of Ryan Wedding showcases the fall from grace of an athlete who once competed on the world stage, now sought as a fugitive facing grave allegations.
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