Fri Jan 23 14:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Former Olympian Ryan Wedding, Accused Drug Kingpin, Apprehended After International Manhunt

The Story:
Former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, 44, has been arrested after a year-long international manhunt. Wanted by the FBI for allegedly running a transnational drug trafficking organization, Wedding is accused of importing approximately 60 metric tons of cocaine annually into Los Angeles via semitrucks from Mexico. Attorney General Pam Bondi previously highlighted the scale of the operation. The arrest follows Wedding’s addition to the FBI’s “Ten Most Wanted” list in March 2025, accompanied by a $15 million reward.

Key Points:

  • Ryan Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder, has been arrested.
  • He is accused of running a transnational drug trafficking organization.
  • The organization allegedly imported 60 metric tons of cocaine per year.
  • He was on the FBI’s “Ten Most Wanted” list.
  • A $15 million reward was offered for his capture.
  • He was charged in a September 2024 superseding indictment with attempted murder and other charges.
  • He was charged in November 2024 with the death of a federal witness.
  • His alleged crime spree began in 2008, after the 2002 Winter Olympics.
  • He was previously convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and served 48 months in prison, released in December 2011.
  • Authorities seized motorcycles worth an estimated $40 million believed to be owned by Wedding in Mexico.
  • Authorities believed Wedding was hiding in Mexico, protected by the Sinaloa cartel.

Key Takeaways:

  • The arrest of Ryan Wedding marks a significant victory for law enforcement agencies in their fight against transnational drug trafficking.
  • The scale of the alleged operation, importing 60 metric tons of cocaine annually, underscores the challenge of combating drug cartels.
  • The case highlights the potential for individuals from diverse backgrounds, including former athletes, to become involved in criminal enterprises.
  • The long-term nature of the investigation, spanning over a year, indicates the complexity and resources required to apprehend high-profile fugitives.
  • The comparison to drug lords like Pablo Escobar and “El Chapo” Guzmán emphasizes the severity of the charges against Wedding.

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