Toronto man accused of being key figure in a money laundering scheme for fugitive Ryan Wedding attempted to escape to the Bahamas before his recent apprehension, as stated by U.S. prosecutors. Rolan Sokolovski, aged 37, is seeking bail in Ontario while awaiting extradition to the U.S. on charges related to money laundering and drug trafficking. The allegations suggest that Sokolovski, a jeweller and former poker player, played a crucial role in handling finances for Wedding’s criminal network, which is implicated in smuggling large quantities of cocaine.
According to U.S. prosecutors, Sokolovski tried to flee to the Bahamas in October 2025 following the seizure of a luxury vehicle valued at $13 million in Florida, which he had allegedly acquired for Wedding. The prosecutors argue that Sokolovski poses a flight risk and is a threat to society due to his association with Wedding’s criminal activities. Despite the accusations, Sokolovski’s defense lawyer has refuted the claim of attempted escape, labeling it as untrue.
In a twist of events, Sokolovski’s planned trip to the Bahamas was disrupted when immigration officials barred him and a female companion from entering the country. The pair was promptly returned to Canada. This incident occurred shortly after U.S. authorities seized a rare and expensive Mercedes-Benz vehicle in Miami, which Sokolovski had reportedly agreed to purchase for Wedding.
Sokolovski’s bail hearing is ongoing, with his defense team asserting that he has no intention of fleeing or engaging in criminal behavior if released. The defense has proposed stringent bail conditions, including house arrest under the supervision of multiple sureties and a substantial financial pledge. U.S. prosecutors have raised concerns about Sokolovski’s access to significant assets, including cryptocurrency and physical wealth, suggesting that his release could pose a risk.
The broader investigation into Wedding’s criminal enterprise has revealed intricate webs of assets used for money laundering purposes. Recent developments include the seizure of high-value motorcycles in Mexico linked to Wedding, as well as sanctions imposed on individuals associated with him by the U.S. Treasury Department. Despite ongoing legal proceedings and arrests, authorities warn that Wedding’s network remains a threat to public safety, with ties to multiple violent incidents.