Newly released bodycam footage shows Olympic gold medalist Kyle Snyder being detained by Columbus Police during a prostitution sting operation on May 9 in Columbus, Ohio.
The footage, obtained by 10TV, captures the moment Snyder was placed in handcuffs at a Quality Inn and Suites following an undercover operation involving an online escort advertisement. The sting resulted in 16 arrests, including Snyder, who was charged with engaging in prostitution.
In the video, officers can be heard instructing Snyder, “Hands up, hands up.” Snyder complies respectfully throughout the encounter, responding with “Yes sir” to officers’ commands.
During the arrest, an officer tells Snyder, “I’m not gonna take you down the hallway, do the walk of shame,” as the wrestler was not wearing pants at the time of detainment. Officers assisted Snyder in putting shorts back on before escorting him out of the hotel room.
When asked for his name, Snyder responds simply, “My name is Kyle.” The footage shows officers asking if he had any outstanding warrants, to which Snyder replied, “No, sir.” An officer then explains that under normal circumstances, he would receive a summons and be released. Snyder mentions he lives in Pennsylvania during the exchange.
According to a police report, authorities confiscated $160 in cash from Snyder, which they documented as evidence after he allegedly offered money to an undercover officer in exchange for adult services.
During processing, Snyder reportedly inquired about the consequences of pleading guilty. Officers informed him that such a plea would result in a fine and mandatory participation in “John school,” an educational program designed for individuals who attempt to purchase relations.
Snyder was detained and released at the scene with his next court appearance scheduled for May 19.
The news of Snyder’s arrest came shortly after the 28-year-old signed a contract with the newly formed Real American Freestyle league, a venture launched by WWE Hall of Famers Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff.
Snyder is considered one of America’s most accomplished wrestlers, with an impressive resume that includes two Olympic medals, seven World Championship medals, and three NCAA National Championships during his time at Ohio State University.
