📰 What Happened?
Olympic gold medalist and former Ohio State wrestling star Kyle Snyder was arrested in a prostitution sting operation conducted by the Columbus Division of Police, authorities confirmed Monday.
The 29-year-old wrestling champion was one of 16 individuals taken into custody during the undercover operation on May 9.
🏨 Arrest at a Columbus Hotel
According to police, Snyder was apprehended inside a hotel room on the city’s north side. Here's how the situation unfolded:
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Officers with the Police and Community Together (PACT) unit posted online ads to attract individuals willing to engage in sexual activity for money.
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Snyder reportedly responded to one of these ads, communicated with officers via text and calls, and agreed to meet.
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Upon arriving at the hotel, he paid undercover officers and requested a sexual act.
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He was immediately arrested by uniformed officers.
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Snyder was released at the scene, but he has been ordered to appear in court on May 19.
🥇 Who is Kyle Snyder?
Kyle Snyder is a highly decorated wrestler known for:
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Winning gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics
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Securing a silver medal in Tokyo (2021)
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Being a three-time world champion
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Claiming three national titles at Ohio State University
🤼♂️ Recent Career Move
Just days before the arrest, Snyder signed with the Real American Freestyle Wrestling League, a newly launched organization spearheaded by wrestling legend Hulk Hogan. The league's first event is scheduled for August 30 in Cleveland.
👮 What Are Police Saying?
Police spokesperson Caitlyn McIntosh said the sting was part of efforts to reduce sex trafficking and related crimes in the Columbus area.
She emphasized that the PACT unit conducts these operations regularly to promote community safety and awareness.
📅 What’s Next?
Snyder has been summoned to court on May 19, where he will face charges of engaging in prostitution. No further comments have been made by Snyder or his representatives as of now.