Former Canadian Olympic Snowboarder Charged in Massive Drug Trafficking Ring
A former Canadian Olympic snowboarder has pleaded not guilty in a Southern California court to allegations of operating a billion-dollar drug trafficking organization and orchestrating several murders. Ryan Wedding, who gained recognition as a competitor in the 2002 Winter Olympics, made his first appearance in court after being extradited from Mexico last week following his arrest.
Why It Matters
This case highlights the ongoing struggle against drug trafficking and organized crime in North America. Wedding’s alleged connections to powerful entities such as the Sinaloa Cartel underscore the complexities of international drug operations, raising questions about law enforcement’s ability to combat these networks effectively.
Key Developments
- Wedding entered his not guilty plea during a court hearing in Santa Ana, California.
- He has been on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list since March 2023, with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to his capture.
- Federal prosecutors have charged him with running a criminal enterprise, murder, and conspiring to distribute cocaine, among other offenses.
- Wedding is accused of coordinating the transportation of up to 60 tons of cocaine across several countries, including Colombia, Mexico, and Canada.
- The court has set a trial date for March 24, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for February 11.
Full Report
Court Appearance and Response
Ryan Wedding appeared in court wearing a tan jail jumpsuit, reportedly in good spirits, though he smiled only briefly during the proceedings. He confirmed to U.S. Magistrate John D. Early that he had read both indictments against him. The judge ordered him to remain in custody, citing concerns over ensuring public safety and Wedding’s appearance in future court sessions, though he allowed for the possibility of bond in the future.
Defense Claims
Wedding’s attorney, Anthony Colombo, disputed claims that his client had voluntarily turned himself in at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. Instead, Colombo insisted that Wedding was living in Mexico, not hiding. He offered limited additional details following the hearing.
Allegations of Violence
The allegations against Wedding are severe, including involvement in the murders of two Canadian family members in 2023 and orchestrating the murder of a witness in Colombia in an attempt to evade extradition. These charges highlight the violent nature of the drug trade and its devastating impact on communities.
Context & Previous Events
Ryan Wedding represented Canada in a single event at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. However, his reputation took a drastic turn when he was indicted in Canada in 2024 for related drug charges stemming from activities dating back to 2015. He was previously convicted in the U.S. for conspiracy to distribute cocaine in 2010 and was released from prison in 2011. Federal authorities indicated that Wedding’s drug trafficking group was the largest supplier of cocaine to Canada, further complicating his extensive criminal profile.
