Wisconsin Man Who Faked Drowning Communicates From Eastern Europe
GREEN LAKE, Wis.—Ryan Borgwardt, a Wisconsin man who staged his own drowning in August to escape his family, has been in daily contact with local law enforcement from an undisclosed location in Eastern Europe. Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll confirmed on Thursday that Borgwardt began communicating with police on November 11, revealing details of his elaborate escape plan, while expressing that he is "safe and secure."
In a video message sent to police, Borgwardt, clad in an orange T-shirt, described how he faked his death by overturning his kayak in Green Lake. He discarded his phone, paddled to shore using an inflatable boat, and then embarked on a 70-mile journey by electric bike to Madison. His subsequent travels took him by bus to Detroit and then to Canada, where he boarded a flight to Europe.
Authorities initially believed Borgwardt might have drowned after discovering his abandoned vehicle and overturned kayak, leading to a search that lasted over 50 days. However, investigation into his activities prior to the incident indicated premeditation, including the acquisition of a new passport and a $375,000 life insurance policy for his family shortly before his disappearance.
Despite the ongoing dialogue with police, Borgwardt has not committed to returning to Wisconsin. Sheriff Podoll expressed hope that familial ties and the impending holiday season might encourage him to come home, stating, “What better gift could your kids get than to be there for Christmas?” Meanwhile, officials are considering potential charges against Borgwardt for obstructing their investigation. Authorities continue to seek clarity on his current whereabouts and means of support as they pursue leads on the case.
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Photo credit kstp.com
