Olympic gold medalist wrestler Kyle Snyder is set to plead guilty to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct, classified as a fourth-degree misdemeanor, during a scheduled court appearance on Monday. This follows his arrest in Columbus, Ohio, as part of a police operation targeting prostitution. Snyder was initially charged with engaging in prostitution.
According to his attorney, Eric Hoffman, the former Ohio State wrestler intends to enter a guilty plea to the lesser charge.
Court records indicate that Snyder has received permission to appear virtually or by telephone for the arraignment hearing set for Monday morning.
In Ohio, a fourth-degree misdemeanor is potentially punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine up to $250.
Snyder was one of 16 individuals arrested during the sting operation conducted by Columbus Police aimed at combating prostitution in the city. Law enforcement officials placed an online advertisement for escort services, and Snyder allegedly communicated through calls and texts before arriving at a local hotel. There, he reportedly propositioned an undercover officer, offering payment for a sexual act.
He was subsequently arrested at the location without incident, charged, and released.
The accomplished wrestler, who has competed in the last three Olympic Games and earned both a gold and silver medal, addressed his arrest publicly for the first time via social media.
“I want to thank everyone who has reached out with kindness and support,” Snyder wrote in his statement. “My focus is on my relationship with the Lord Jesus and my family. This is not conclusion of my journey.”
Snyder is currently scheduled for his next wrestling competition on June 14 as part of the Final X series, which determines the U.S. representatives for the World Championships. Snyder has already secured his spot in the final match, where he will face Hayden Zillmer. The winner will advance to the World Championships taking place in Croatia this September.
