Olympic champion Kyle Snyder, arrested during a police operation against prostitution in Columbus, Ohio, intends to plead guilty to a less serious charge at a hearing scheduled for Monday.
His attorney, Eric Hoffman, informed local media that the former Ohio State wrestler plans to plead guilty to disorderly conduct, classified as a fourth-degree misdemeanor. He was initially charged with engaging in prostitution.
According to court documents, Snyder has been granted permission to participate in the preliminary hearing set for Monday at 9 a.m. local time, either by phone or video conference.
In Ohio, this type of misdemeanor is punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $250.
Snyder was among 16 men detained by Columbus police as part of a sting operation targeting prostitution in the city. Police posted an online escort advertisement, and Snyder allegedly contacted them via calls and texts before arriving at a local hotel, where he reportedly propositioned an undercover officer by offering payment for oral sex.
He was subsequently detained without incident, charged, and released at the scene.
The decorated wrestler, who has competed in the last three Olympic Games, securing both gold and silver medals, publicly addressed his arrest for the first time on social media.
“I want to thank everyone who has reached out with kindness and support,” Snyder wrote. “My focus now is on my relationship with the Lord Jesus and my family. This is not the end of my journey.”
Snyder is currently scheduled to compete next on June 14 in the Final X series, which determines the U.S. representative for the World Wrestling Championships. Snyder has already advanced to the final match, where he will face Hayden Zillmer; the winner will proceed to the World Championships in Croatia in September.
