Kyle Snyder, a U.S. Olympic gold medallist in wrestling, was charged Friday in prostitution sting, according to police in Columbus, Ohio.
The former Ohio State star, who is one of the most successful wrestlers in U.S. history, was one of 16 men who were charged during the operation.
According to Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert, the department posted ads for escort services on the internet to lure those looking to engage in prostitution.
According to the New York Post, Snyder allegedly called and texted police on Friday evening upon seeing the ads online. He arrived at a hotel to meet up for what he allegedly thought was a legitimate escort service.
Police said Snyder allegedly paid an undercover officer in cash and asked for oral sex.
Snyder, 29, was charged with engaging in prostitution, according to court records obtained by The Associated Press.
An attorney was not listed for Snyder and messages seeking a comment from Snyder were not immediately returned to AP on Tuesday.
The arrest came a day after the announcement that he was joining Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling promotion with WWE legend Hulk Hogan serving as commissioner.
In a statement announcing the signing of Snyder, as well as four other athletes, Hogan said the company’s “goal is to give these athletes an opportunity to continue their careers, create a platform for greatness, and inspire a legacy that lasts.”
Snyder earned gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics and a silver in Tokyo in 2021. He finished just off the podium at last summer’s Paris Games, losing in the bronze-medal match.
He’s also a three-time world champion and won three NCAA titles during his time at Ohio State.