### Man Allegedly Fakes Drowning to Escape to Europe, Details Emerge

GREEN LAKE COUNTY, Wis. - Recent revelations by Wisconsin authorities suggest an intricate scheme by a man to simulate his own death and flee to Europe. Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll revealed to reporters that they've been in contact with Ryan Borgwardt, who was initially presumed to have drowned while kayaking on August 11. Investigators now suspect that Borgwardt is currently in Eastern Europe.

"On Nov. 11, we got in contact with Ryan," Sheriff Podoll disclosed, marking a significant breakthrough in what had been an exhaustive search. After weeks of scouring the lake and the surrounding areas, a series of electronic trails on Borgwardt’s computer led authorities to a Russian-speaking woman believed to be accompanying him.

Borgwardt has since confirmed his survival by sending a video to the sheriff’s office, detailing his meticulous escape. "He stashed an e-bike near the boat launch," Podoll elaborated. "He paddled his kayak and a child-sized floating boat out into the lake; he overturned the kayak and dumped his phone in the lake, paddled the boat to shore, and then got on his e-bike, riding through the night to Madison, Wisconsin."

The adventure continued as Borgwardt took a bus from Madison to Detroit. From there, he crossed the Canadian border and booked a flight overseas. "We are emphasizing the importance of his decision to return and clear the upheaval his actions have caused," said Podoll, stressing the primary concern for Borgwardt's safe return to U.S. soil.

Although officers maintain communication with Borgwardt, the contents of these discussions remain confidential. Authorities revealed that Borgwardt abandoned a wife and children, with no contact since his disappearance. Charges have yet to be filed, but Borgwardt may face obstruction charges if he comes back to the United States. Additionally, he could be held accountable for the search costs, estimated between $35,000-$40,000, plus another $7,000 for divers and equipment, and potentially federal charges as well.

When questioned about any indications of Borgwardt considering returning, Sheriff Podoll refrained from commenting further.