Wisconsin man Ryan Borgwardt, who faked his death in a kayaking accident and fled to Eastern Europe, has returned to the United States and turned himself in to authorities. He was charged with obstructing an officer and faces a fine of $10,000 and up to nine months in jail if convicted. Borgwardt’s elaborate plan involved overturning his kayak, fleeing to Madison, and eventually flying to Europe. He communicated with a woman in Uzbekistan, transferred funds to a foreign bank account, and took out a life insurance policy to help his family. The costly search for Borgwardt involved state and federal agencies and a non-profit organization. Despite expressing regret, Borgwardt hurt his family emotionally and financially. Authorities are urging him to clean up the mess he created. The sheriff confirmed that Borgwardt’s passport was found at home and that the investigation revealed his efforts to disappear. Borgwardt’s family experienced emotional distress following the initial mourning and then discovery of his abandonment. Borgwardt’s actions have had a lasting impact on those involved in the search efforts.
Source
Photo credit www.cnn.com
