Olympic gold medalist and wrestling icon Kyle Snyder found himself at the center of controversy after being caught in a Columbus, Ohio, prostitution sting operation on May 9. Newly released police bodycam footage reveals a surprising and humbling moment for the decorated athlete: he was arrested pantsless in a hotel room during the undercover bust.
The sting, conducted by Columbus Police’s Police and Community Together (PACT) unit, targeted individuals soliciting prostitution through online ads. Snyder responded to one of the ads, arranged a meeting at a Quality Inn and Suites, and allegedly offered $160 in cash to an undercover officer in exchange for oral sex. Officers moved in shortly after the transaction and detained the 29-year-old wrestler.
The bodycam video, released by WBNS 10TV, shows Snyder complying respectfully with officers as he was handcuffed. In a moment of awkward humanity, officers helped him put on shorts, assuring him he wouldn’t be subjected to a “walk of shame” through the hotel hallway. He was later moved to a separate room for questioning, where he provided personal information and was informed about the legal process.
Charged with engaging in prostitution, Snyder was released at the scene. His court date is scheduled for May 19. If he pleads guilty, he could face a fine and be required to attend “John school”—an educational program designed to deter future solicitation.
Snyder’s arrest comes just days after he signed with the new Real American Freestyle league, a pro-wrestling initiative launched by WWE legends Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff. Known for his dominance on the mat, Snyder boasts two Olympic medals, seven World Championship medals, and three NCAA national titles from his tenure at Ohio State.
As of now, Snyder has not publicly commented on the incident.
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