Ryan Borgwardt Arrested for Crafting Death Hoax to Escape to Europe with Mistress

Ryan Borgwardt believed he could cleverly deceive authorities by staging his own demise to abscond to Europe with his paramour. Many may fantasize about such escapades, but deliberately faking your death is a bold move. Unsurprisingly, his intricate ruse unraveled, resulting in his capture. Instead of enjoying romantic evenings abroad, Borgwardt now finds himself incarcerated in the United States. Judge Mark Slate sentenced the 45-year-old from Watertown to 89 days in jail—matching the duration of his deception, as reported by ABC affiliate WISN12. Additionally, he is liable for $30,000 in expenses owed to the Green Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. District Attorney Gerise LaSpisa emphasized the profound impact of Borgwardt’s actions, stating they inflicted considerable harm on both his family and the wider community. Charged with obstruction following a $30,000 manhunt initiated after his August 11, 2024 disappearance, he had crossed into Canada shortly after vanishing.