Olympic gold medalist Kyle Snyder is anticipated to enter a guilty plea to a reduced charge at a court hearing scheduled for Monday. His arrest occurred as part of a prostitution sting operation conducted by police in Columbus, Ohio.
According to his attorney, Eric Hoffman, the former Ohio State wrestler intends to plead guilty to disorderly conduct, categorized as a fourth-degree misdemeanor. The initial charge against him was engaging in prostitution.
Court records indicate that Snyder has received authorization to attend the arraignment hearing scheduled for Monday remotely, either by phone or video conference.
In Ohio, a conviction for a fourth-degree misdemeanor can result in a sentence of up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $250, or both.
Snyder was among 16 individuals apprehended during the Columbus Police sting targeting prostitution. Authorities reportedly posted an online escort advertisement, to which Snyder allegedly responded via calls and texts. He then reportedly arrived at a local hotel and offered payment for oral sex to an undercover officer.
He was subsequently arrested without resistance, formally charged, and released from the location.
The accomplished wrestler, a participant in the last three Olympic games where he earned both gold and silver medals, publicly addressed his arrest via social media.
“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 conclusion of my journey.”
Snyder`s next wrestling event is currently planned as part of the Final X series, which determines the U.S. representatives for the Wrestling World Championships. Snyder has already secured his spot in the final match, where he is set to compete against Hayden Zillmer. The victor will advance to the World Championships in Croatia.
