FBI Seizes $13M Mercedes From Olympic Snowboarder in Drug Case

Federal agents have seized an ultra-rare $13 million Mercedes from a fugitive former Olympian. The FBI took possession of a 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR Roadster this week. The seizure is linked to former Canadian snowboarder Ryan Wedding.

Wedding is an alleged international drug kingpin currently on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list. Authorities believe the luxury supercar was purchased with illicit narcotics profits. This action is part of a sprawling multinational investigation.

A Supercar Funded by Alleged Crime

The seized vehicle is exceptionally rare and valuable. Mercedes-Benz produced only six examples of the CLK-GTR Roadster. When sold at auction, these cars routinely command eight-figure prices.

According to the FBI, the car was bought with money from Wedding’s alleged operation. Prosecutors say he converted drug profits into high-value assets like this. The vehicle’s ownership trail helped investigators uncover shell companies and intermediaries.

The car is now in federal custody. It will likely be forfeited and sold at government auction if the court approves. This could make it one of the most expensive cars ever sold through a law-enforcement seizure.

From Olympic Athlete to Wanted Fugitive

Ryan Wedding competed for Canada in snowboarding at the 2002 Winter Games. He placed 24th in the parallel giant slalom event in Salt Lake City. His life after athletics took a dark turn, according to federal indictments.

Authorities allege he built a billion-dollar cocaine trafficking network. The operation reportedly moved tons of drugs from Colombia through Mexico into North America. Investigators have compared its scale to cartels once led by figures like El Chapo.

A recent press conference outlined stunning allegations. Former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi stated the network imported about 60 metric tons of cocaine into Los Angeles yearly. The operation allegedly generated over $1 billion in annual revenue.

Violence, Bounties, and a Global Manhunt

The case involves allegations of extreme violence. Prosecutors claim Wedding ordered hits on rivals and placed a bounty on a federal witness. That witness was later murdered in Colombia, according to court documents.

Several associates have been charged alongside him. They include his wife, accused of money laundering, and an alleged security chief known as “The General.” A Canadian attorney was also arrested this week for his purported role.

Despite the seizures and arrests, Wedding remains at large. The FBI believes he is hiding in Mexico with cartel protection. The U.S. State Department is offering a $15 million reward for information leading to his capture.

The seizure of the $13 million Mercedes marks a high-profile step in dismantling the alleged empire of this fugitive Olympic snowboarder. Authorities continue their global pursuit, aiming to bring a once-celebrated athlete to face justice.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the Mercedes CLK-GTR Roadster?

The CLK-GTR Roadster is one of the rarest modern supercars. Mercedes built only six roadster versions to meet racing homologation rules. Its extreme scarcity and racing pedigree drive its multi-million dollar value.

What was Ryan Wedding convicted of previously?

Wedding was convicted in 2009 for a cocaine purchase in San Diego. He was sentenced in 2010 and released from prison in late 2011. Prosecutors say he returned to large-scale trafficking soon after his release.

How big is the reward for his capture?

The U.S. State Department is offering a $15 million reward. This is one of the largest fugitive rewards ever offered in North America. The FBI also lists him on its Ten Most Wanted list.

Where is Ryan Wedding now?

Authorities believe he is evading capture in Mexico. They think he is protected by cartel affiliates and uses a network of loyal intermediaries. He frequently changes locations and may have altered his appearance.

What happens to the seized Mercedes?

The car is currently in federal custody. If the court rules it was purchased with illegal funds, it will be forfeited. The government would then likely auction it to the public.