Former Olympian accused of ordering killing of federal trial witness

Key Concepts

• Ryan Wedding: Former Olympic snowboarder accused of being an international drug kingpin.
• Sinaloa Cartel: Mexican criminal organization allegedly protecting Ryan Wedding.
• Cocaine Distribution: Wedding's organization is accused of importing significant quantities of cocaine.
• Murder Charges: New indictments include murder charges against Wedding.
• Witness Intimidation/Murder: Allegations of Wedding orchestrating the murder of a witness.
• Mistaken Identity: A previous murder charge against Wedding was allegedly due to mistaken identity.
• $15 Million Reward: Offered by authorities for information leading to Wedding's arrest.

International Drug Kingpin Accusation Against Former Olympic Athlete

Authorities, including the FBI, are intensifying their efforts in the manhunt for Ryan Wedding, a 44-year-old former Canadian Olympic snowboarder (2002 Olympics). He is now being described as a "modern-day iteration of Pablo Escobar" and is accused of being an international drug kingpin.

Scale of Cocaine Distribution

Wedding's organization is alleged to be one of the largest distributors of cocaine globally. Specifically, it is responsible for importing approximately 60 metric tons of cocaine per year into Los Angeles. This volume is transported via semi-trucks from Mexico. To illustrate the magnitude of this quantity, 60 metric tons is equivalent to the weight of roughly 40 standard cars.

Allegations of Witness Murder and Obstruction of Justice

A significant development in the case involves new murder charges against Wedding. Authorities allege that he used the internet to "crowdsource" information about a man who was slated to testify against him. Following this, Wedding is accused of hiring gunmen to locate and kill the witness. The witness was subsequently gunned down in a restaurant in Medellín before he could provide testimony.

Legal Ramifications and Additional Indictments

In addition to Ryan Wedding, 18 other individuals are facing charges in the new indictment. Notably, Wedding's lawyer is among those charged and is now in custody. It is reported that the lawyer advised Wedding, stating, "If you kill this witness, the case would be dismissed."

Reward and Previous Charges

Officials have announced a substantial $15 million reward for any information that leads to Ryan Wedding's arrest. This intensified pursuit follows previous charges against Wedding last year. He was previously charged with the murder of a couple whom he believed were responsible for a lost cocaine shipment. However, authorities now state that this was a case of mistaken identity.

Protection by Sinaloa Cartel

Authorities believe that Ryan Wedding is currently hiding in Mexico, reportedly under the protection of the Sinaloa cartel.

Conclusion

The case against Ryan Wedding highlights the sophisticated operations of international drug trafficking networks, the extreme measures taken to obstruct justice, and the significant resources being deployed by law enforcement to apprehend high-profile figures in the drug trade. The involvement of a former Olympic athlete and the alleged orchestration of witness murder underscore the severity and complexity of the charges.