News Summary
In a bizarre turn of events, a Wisconsin man attempted to fake his own drowning to escape family obligations, resulting in a significant jail sentence for obstructing law enforcement. After misleading authorities with a staged kayak incident, he was tracked down and ultimately sentenced to 89 days in jail, along with a hefty restitution fee for the search efforts. His elaborate scheme included a journey across various states and countries, revealing a troubling quest for a new life while causing chaos for his family and local law enforcement.
A Wild Tale of Disappearing Acts and Daring Escapes
In a story that sounds straight out of a movie, a 45-year-old man from Wisconsin, Ryan Borgwardt, found himself in hot water after attempting to fake his own drowning. This bizarre attempt to escape his family affair ended with him being sentenced to 89 days in jail for obstructing an officer—a sentence that nearly doubled what prosecutors had initially recommended.
A Deceptive Swim
It all started on August 12, 2024, when Borgwardt told his wife that he was going kayaking at Green Lake. Instead of enjoying a relaxing day on the water, he orchestrated a scheme that would mislead law enforcement and leave his loved ones in distress for nearly three months. Authorities discovered his car, trailer, and a capsized kayak, but worryingly, they could not find Borgwardt’s body, leading to a massive search operation that lasted 58 days.
The Investigation Unfolds
Things took a twist when Canadian authorities checked Borgwardt’s name shortly after he was reported missing, which opened up an investigation into his whereabouts. Clues like Borgwardt obtaining a passport just three months prior to his supposed drowning hinted that this wasn’t just a spur-of-the-moment decision; he had been planning his great escape. Even more eye-opening was the forensic analysis of a laptop belonging to Borgwardt’s wife that revealed serious intentions behind his sudden disappearance.
A Rootless Journey
After being contacted by investigators in November, Borgwardt returned to the United States in December, where charges were swiftly laid against him for obstructing the search for his body. It became evident that he had traveled from his home in Watertown to Green Lake, flipped his kayak, paddled to shore using an inflatable raft, and disposed of his identification in the lake—essentially scripting his own “death.” Making his escape even more elaborate, he rode an electric bicycle for about 70 miles to Madison, caught a bus to Toronto, and subsequently hopped on planes to Paris and finally Georgia.
A Troubling Truth
Upon piecing the story together, investigators discovered that Borgwardt had even reversed a vasectomy and taken out a life insurance policy before his grand deception. It was clear he had set the stage for a new life, leaving behind his wife and three children in the process. His actions, however, not only stirred chaos within his family but placed an undue burden on local law enforcement resources.
Facing the Consequences
Initially entering a plea of not guilty, Borgwardt would later change his stance to no contest as part of a plea deal where he ultimately accepted his misdeeds. Even though prosecutors had suggested a sentence of just 45 days, Judge Mark Slate felt it was necessary to send a message about the seriousness of obstructing law enforcement by nearly doubling the sentence to 89 days. Borgwardt expressed regret in court, recognizing the pain he had caused his family and community.
A Bill to Pay
As part of the fallout from his actions, Borgwardt has also agreed to pay $30,000 in restitution to the law enforcement agencies involved in the extensive search for him. His lawyer mentioned that he is taking steps to make amends and even settled his restitution payment last week.
Lessons Learned
In the end, this wild escapade showcases not just the lengths some people will go to escape their responsibilities but also the collateral damage it inflicts on those left behind. As Ryan Borgwardt serves his time, it’s a reminder to all about the importance of honesty and accountability—no matter how tempting it might be to disappear.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
