Wisconsin Kayaker Who Faked His Death Returns Voluntarily to the U.S.

Wisconsin Kayaker Who Faked His Death Returns Voluntarily to the U.S.  A Wisconsin man who faked his own drowning and abandoned his wife and three children has willingly returned to the United States after spending roughly four months in Eastern Europe, authorities announced Wednesday. Ryan Borgwardt, 45, who was reported missing in mid-August, turned himself in at the Green Lake County Justice Center on Tuesday. Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll confirmed that Borgwardt "came back on his own" due to concerns for his family. “We can stand here feeling relieved,” Podoll stated during a press conference. Borgwardt is currently being held at the Green Lake County Jail and is expected to appear in court later in the day. The sheriff's office has recommended several charges, including obstruction, but specific charges have yet to be confirmed by the county prosecutor. A Staged Drowning In August, Borgwardt staged his disappearance by traveling approximately 50 miles from his home in Watertown to Green Lake, the deepest lake in Wisconsin. He reportedly overturned his kayak, abandoned his phone, and used an inflatable boat to reach the shore undetected. Borgwardt later admitted to authorities that he staged the drowning due to "personal matters." Communication and Return Sheriff Podoll revealed that Borgwardt began communicating with authorities on November 11, but initially hesitated to return to Wisconsin. Law enforcement worked to appeal to his sense of family, “pulling at his heartstrings” to encourage his return. Details about Borgwardt’s time abroad and the specifics of his return trip remain undisclosed. “That’s going to be up to him someday. We’re not going to release that,” Podoll stated, emphasizing the importance of reuniting Borgwardt with his family. Next Steps Borgwardt’s voluntary return concludes a months-long search that began after his staged drowning raised suspicions. The investigation into his disappearance involved multiple law enforcement agencies and drew public attention. Authorities are now focusing on the legal consequences of his actions, as well as the impact on his family. Sheriff Podoll summed up the situation, saying, “We brought a dad back on his own.” Further details regarding Borgwardt’s charges and legal proceedings are expected to emerge following his court appearance