FBI Offers $10 Million for Capture of Ex-Olympian Accused of Laundering with USDT

The FBI has announced a $10 million reward for information leading to the capture of Ryan Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder suspected of laundering money using Tether (USDT). Wedding is accused of being a key figure in a multinational cocaine empire, and his inclusion on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list underscores the urgency and importance of his apprehension.

In October 2024, the Department of Justice filed criminal charges against Wedding and 15 other defendants, alleging their involvement in leading a criminal organization that committed multiple atrocities during drug trafficking. U.S. authorities claim that Wedding is suspected of using his criminal organization to smuggle hundreds of kilograms of cocaine and fentanyl into North America. Additionally, he is accused of orchestrating multiple murders to protect his business interests.

One of the most alarming aspects of the case is the alleged use of USDT for money laundering and to circumvent traditional banking systems. This highlights the growing concern over the use of cryptocurrencies in illicit activities and the need for enhanced regulatory measures to combat such practices. The FBI's offer of a $10 million reward underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the determination of law enforcement to bring Wedding to justice.

The case of Ryan Wedding serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often dangerous world of international drug trafficking and money laundering. The use of cryptocurrencies in these activities adds an additional layer of complexity, making it more challenging for law enforcement agencies to track and apprehend those involved. The FBI's efforts to capture Wedding and dismantle his criminal organization are a critical step in the ongoing battle against organized crime and financial fraud.