Wisconsin Man Who Faked Drowning Found in Eastern Europe, Remains Uncooperative

Ryan Borgwardt, the Wisconsin man who staged his own drowning in August, has been located in Eastern Europe and is communicating with authorities, but shows no immediate signs of returning home to his wife and three children, The Associated Press reports.

Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll made the announcement Thursday, revealing that contact was established with Borgwardt on November 11 after an extensive investigation.

The Sheriff shared a video received that day, showing Borgwardt in an undisclosed location. In the video, a seemingly unconcerned Borgwardt, wearing an orange t-shirt, states he is “safe and secure.” The video, seemingly filmed on a cellphone, offers only a brief glimpse of his apartment.

Borgwardt, in his mid-40s, was reported missing on August 12 after a kayaking trip to Green Lake. His kayak was found overturned, prompting a massive, 50-day search that cost at least $35,000. Investigators discovered his vehicle and trailer near the lake. The discovery of his fishing rod by an angler further fueled the initial belief that he had drowned.

However, clues, including a recently obtained replacement passport after reporting his previous one lost or stolen, led authorities to suspect foul play. Sheriff Podoll confirmed that Borgwardt’s actions were motivated by personal issues and stated that he has been communicating with law enforcement almost daily since the November 11th contact. He added that the investigation determined that Borgwardt had taken out a $375,000 life insurance policy in January.

While authorities have confirmed Borgwardt’s identity through a series of questions only he would know, his exact location remains undisclosed. According to his account, he intentionally capsized his kayak, discarded his phone, and used an inflatable boat to reach shore. He then rode a pre-hidden electric bike to Madison, taking a bus to Detroit before flying from Canada. These details are currently being verified by investigators.

Sheriff Podoll said that no criminal charges are currently anticipated, preferring to focus on encouraging Borgwardt’s return. While deputies are urging him to return and address the consequences of his actions, the Sheriff emphasized that any decision to return home is entirely Borgwardt’s.