Man fakes drowning to flee to Eastern Europe
Ryan Borgwardt faked his own drowning during a kayaking trip in Green Lake, Wisconsin, and staged his death to flee to Eastern Europe. After an exhaustive search, authorities found he was alive and well, residing in an undisclosed location. He gave reasons for staging his death, including personal matters, but no criminal activity or personal danger was involved. The sheriff's office spent between $35,000 and $40,000 in search efforts and may seek restitution. Borgwardt faces potential legal consequences if he does not cooperate and return home soon.