Olympic champion Kyle Snyder releases statement following arrest in prostitution sting
Olympic gold medalist Kyle Snyder has broken his silence after being arrested on charges of engaging in prostitution during a sting operation led by Columbus Police this past Friday.
Police set up an online escort ad that ultimately led to 16 arrests including Snyder after he responded and set up an encounter at a local Quality Inn and Suites Hotel. After arriving, Snyder propositioned an undercover officer by paying for oral sex, which led to his arrest.
On Wednesday, Snyder took to social media to address the arrest for the first time.
“I want to thank everyone who has reached out with kindness and support,” Snyder wrote. “My focus is on my relationship with the Lord Jesus and my family. This is not the conclusion of my journey.”
An arrest video was eventually released by police that showed Snyder being led away in handcuffs after the trap was sprung on him. Police confiscated $160 in cash from Snyder before charging him with engaging in prostitution.
Recognized as one of the most decorated wrestlers in American history, Snyder was arrested in Columbus, which is where he spent his collegiate career as a three-time National Champion at The Ohio State University.
During his four years at Ohio State, Snyder also became the youngest American to ever capture a gold medal in wrestling when he claimed the championship at the 2016 games. He returned to win a silver medal at the 2020 Olympics before falling short of a medal in his third Olympics this past year in Paris.
Snyder is due in court on May 19 to face the charges after his arrest.