FBI Announces $15M Reward for Canadian Fugitive Once Linked to a Maple Ridge Case
The FBI has issued a staggering $15-million (USD) reward for information leading to the arrest of a Canadian man—formerly an Olympian—now accused of operating one of the most violent and profitable drug-trafficking organizations in North America.
The 44-year-old fugitive, currently on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, was once the subject of a 2006 search warrant connected to a Maple Ridge investigation. Although he was never charged in that case, the athlete later became linked to major cross-border narcotics operations.
Accused of Ordering a Murder in Colombia
In an indictment unsealed Nov. 19, U.S. officials allege he placed a bounty on a federal witness and coordinated the killing on Jan. 31, 2025, at a restaurant in Medellín, Colombia. Authorities say he hired intermediaries to locate the victim and arranged the hit while under investigation for trafficking offences.
Officials also accuse him of running a “continuing criminal enterprise,” laundering massive drug proceeds and intimidating witnesses.
Long History of Drug-Related Investigations
The fugitive first gained notoriety as a Canadian snowboarder competing in the 2002 Winter Olympics. His later legal issues included a 2010 U.S. conviction for attempting to purchase cocaine from an undercover agent.
In 2024, he was also charged with directing the murders of two people in Caledon, Ontario—and attempting a third—over a missing drug shipment.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said his organization generated over $1 billion annually, trafficked 60 metric tons of cocaine a year, and worked directly with the Sinaloa Cartel.
Dozens Arrested in Operation “Giant Slalom”
At a Nov. 19 press conference, officials announced arrests of 10 suspects connected to the killing, part of a broader international investigation that has now placed 11 individuals in custody.
Arrests include Canadian, American, and Colombian suspects ranging from a criminal lawyer to a reggaeton musician. Authorities allege that several defendants helped locate the victim, shared personal information, or encouraged obstruction of justice.
Three suspects—including one from Vancouver—remain at large.
Investigation Expands Across North America
The fugitive is believed to be living in Mexico under cartel protection and goes by several aliases. U.S. officials describe him as armed, dangerous, and directly responsible for sending “waves of cocaine” into communities across Canada and the U.S.
RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme praised the partnership between agencies, saying coordinated intelligence sharing remains essential in combating transnational crime groups.
FBI Tip Line
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Information can also be shared with any U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
Leave a comment