CNN
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A Wisconsin man who officials say faked his own death and fled to Eastern Europe was charged with a midemeanor count of obstructing an officer Wednesday after he turned himself in to authorities.
Ryan Borgwardt, who was reported missing in August, flew back to the United States willingly, arriving Tuesday, said Green Lake County Sheriff Mark Podoll, who remained tight-lipped on why the man left his wife and three children by allegedly staging a kayaking accident, and where exactly he’s been for the past four months.
“He came back on his own,” said Podoll during a news conference Wednesday. When asked by the media why Borgwardt decided to return, Podoll added, “His family, I guess.”
Borgwardt appeared in court Wednesday and said he couldn’t afford an attorney and offered to represent himself. Circuit Court Judge Mark T. Slate reminded the defendant he has the right to court-appointed attorney and could request one if needed.
Judge Mark T.
Slate entered a not guilty plea on Borgwardt’s behalf and ordered a $500 signature bond. When asked about setting a bond, Borgwardt said, “I have $20
