An Olympic gold medalist has reportedly been arrested following a covert police operation targeting prostitution.
Freestyle wrestler Kyle Snyder, 29, was named as one of sixteen individuals reportedly facing charges in connection with the sting conducted by law enforcement in Columbus, Ohio.
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In 2016, Snyder made history as the youngest athlete to achieve a clean sweep of the sport`s three major accolades.
His impressive collection of titles includes the world championship, the Olympic gold medal, and the NCAA wrestling championship.
Columbus Police confirmed Snyder`s arrest took place on Friday following their investigation.
According to reports in US media, authorities initiated the operation by posting online advertisements for escort services.
Police subsequently used the responses to these online ads to facilitate potential arrests.
It is alleged that Snyder contacted a phone number reportedly featured in the advertisement through both calling and texting.
The three-time world champion is accused of agreeing to meet the person advertised as an `escort` at a nearby hotel.
He faces allegations that he then paid cash to an undercover police officer and solicited oral sex.
Snyder was arrested on charges related to engaging in prostitution.
Reports indicate he was released at the scene and is scheduled to appear in court on May 19th.
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Snyder, who hails from Woodbine, Maryland, is recognized as the youngest American wrestler to earn an Olympic gold medal, which he achieved nine years ago at the Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
He went on to win a silver medal at the Tokyo Games in 2020 but did not secure a medal at the Paris Games held last year.
The three-time national champion recently joined the new Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion, a venture founded by wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and former WWE executive Eric Bischoff.
Percy Harlow