An Olympic gold medalist has reportedly been arrested following an undercover operation targeting prostitution.
Freestyle wrestler Kyle Snyder, aged 29, was among 16 individuals reportedly charged in connection with the sting conducted by Columbus Police in Ohio.
Snyder achieved a notable milestone in 2016, becoming the youngest wrestler to win his sport`s three major titles: the world championship, the Olympic title, and the NCAA wrestling gong.
Columbus Police have confirmed that Snyder was arrested on Friday as part of their investigation.
According to reports in US media, law enforcement posted advertisements for escort services online.
Police then used the responses to set up potential arrests.
It is alleged that Snyder contacted a listed number by calling and texting. The three-time world champion is accused of arranging to meet the individual identified as an `escort` at a nearby hotel.
He reportedly faces claims that he subsequently paid cash to an undercover officer and requested oral sex.
Snyder was arrested on allegations of engaging in prostitution.
He was reportedly released at the scene and is scheduled to appear in court on May 19th.
Snyder, who hails from Woodbine, Maryland, holds the distinction of being the youngest American wrestler to claim Olympic gold, which he achieved nine years ago in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Games in 2020 but did not reach the podium in Paris the previous year.
The three-time national champion recently joined the new Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion, a venture established by wrestling legend Hulk Hogan and former WWE executive Eric Bischoff.
Elton Marrow