FBI’s Most Wanted: Former Olympian Ryan James Wedding’s Alleged Drug Trafficking Operation
The U.S. Justice Department announced that Ryan James Wedding, a former Olympic athlete, has made it onto the FBI’s list of ten most wanted fugitives. This designation comes amid serious allegations that Wedding has been operating a substantial drug trafficking network.
Details of the Allegations
According to federal authorities, Wedding’s alleged drug enterprise purportedly involves the shipment of hundreds of kilograms of cocaine sourced from Colombia and transported through Mexico into southern California before reaching Canada and various locations across the United States. Furthermore, officials claim Wedding has orchestrated multiple murders in connection to these illicit activities.
Background on Ryan James Wedding
Ryan James Wedding, 43, was once a promising member of Team Canada, competing in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where he finished 24th in the parallel giant slalom event. His path took a troubling turn just four years later when he was convicted in 2010 for attempting to purchase cocaine from an undercover operative, resulting in a four-year prison sentence.
Criminal Charges and Warrant Issuance
In recent developments, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Wedding in the U.S. Central District of California. He faces serious charges including conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, conspiracy to export cocaine, and murder linked to a continuing criminal enterprise. The Justice Department has classified Wedding’s activities as involving “cocaine trafficking and murder, including of innocent civilians.”
Violent Criminal Ties
Authorities allege an alarming escalation in Wedding’s criminal activities, including the ordering of killings related to his drug operations. In 2023, he is suspected of directing the murders of two family members in Ontario, Canada, linked to a stolen drug shipment. One victim survived an attack while another was killed as part of a follow-up hit over an outstanding drug debt in May 2024.
Physical Description and Current Status
Wedding is described as being approximately 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing around 240 pounds. He is believed to be in Mexico, potentially under the protection of the notorious Sinaloa drug cartel. Authorities warn that he should be considered armed and dangerous.
Reward for Information
The Justice Department is currently offering a reward up to $10 million for any information that could lead to Wedding’s arrest or conviction. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to submit tips to tips.fbi.gov.
As this case unfolds, it draws attention to the darker side of drug trafficking and the sometimes unforeseen paths taken by former athletes.