Alleged Drug Kingpin, Former Olympian, Used Cryptocurrency too Launder Millions, U.S. Authorities Say
U.S.authorities allege that Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder accused of leading an international drug-trafficking organization, utilized cryptocurrency to launder millions of dollars generated from his criminal enterprise. The U.S. Department of the Treasury recently sanctioned ten individuals connected to the alleged ring, revealing details of the operation’s financial mechanisms. A reward for information leading to Wedding’s arrest has been increased to $15 million, as authorities believe the 44-year-old is currently in Mexico under the protection of the Sinaloa Cartel.
The case highlights the growing trend of transnational criminal organizations leveraging digital assets to obscure illicit funds and evade detection. Wedding’s alleged network is linked to multiple murders, including four in Ontario, committed to further his drug trafficking activities. The use of cryptocurrency adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, requiring specialized expertise to trace the flow of money and dismantle the financial infrastructure supporting the operation.
According to U.S. authorities, Wedding was first identified as the alleged ringleader in 2024. Prosecutors claim he retains access to a “network of hitmen” and intends to continue ordering murders to prevent his capture. The investigation, which spans multiple countries, underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in combating refined criminal networks that exploit emerging technologies like cryptocurrency.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s sanctions aim to disrupt the financial networks enabling Wedding’s alleged drug trafficking and violence. Authorities are actively pursuing leads in Mexico, working with international partners to apprehend Wedding and dismantle his organization. The increased reward reflects the seriousness with which U.S. law enforcement views the threat posed by Wedding and his alleged criminal enterprise.
