In 2008, a new world record was set by powerlifter Ryan Shawn Kennelly. He pressed 1,075 pounds during a powerlifting competition in Kennewick, WA. As a professional powerlifter for 16 years, he was able to establish himself as one of the icons in the sports of powerlifting. He wrote a book on powerlifting and has authored several video tutorials on the internet. In fact, a search on Wikipedia and other bodybuilding websites will show information about him.

However, his popularity could be tainted with his alleged involvement with anabolic steroid distribution. According to the report of the Herald, Ryan Kennelly “The Bench Monster” was arrested by the authorities last December 17 for possession and intent to manufacture or distribute anabolic steroids. A raid in his home resulted to the seizure of 84 vials of steroids and 7 packets of steroid chemicals.

Pleaded Not Guilty

Kennelly was already charged by the authorities and currently on a $25,000 bail. His trial was scheduled on February 14. The powerlifter denied these charges and pleaded not guilty in Benton County Superior Court. The Herald learned that Kennelly was also charged in Moses Lake for a similar offense. He was charged with manufacturing marijuana and possession with intent to deliver both marijuana and anabolic steroids.

The use of anabolic steroids by bodybuilders and powerlifters is not uncommon. Actually most of them rely on steroids to beef-up their bodies and increase their stamina and strength. But manufacturing and distributing these drugs will definitely put them in jail. Anabolic steroids are controlled substances and are strictly monitored by the authorities especially when it is purchased from other countries.

Kennelly claimed that he is a clean athlete during an interview with the Herald a year ago. “I don’t want to do anything else. I started fishing again and I enjoy that, but I don’t drink and I don’t party. I have a small circle of friends with no surprises. I’m No. 1 in the world because I didn’t go down that path,” said Kennelly.

Joint Investigation

The investigation on Kennelly started in 2009 according to Grant County Detective Dean Hallatt. The successful arrest and seizure of steroids were the result of the joint efforts of different agencies including the narcotics department and the postal service. “We are still currently in an ongoing investigation with Mr. Kennelly. It originated in Grant County prior, and then it transferred over to Benton County,” said Hallatt. “But as for a lot of the details, respectfully we are still in an investigation so I would hate to compromise it.” Kennewick police Sgt. Ken Lattin also refused to give more details on the case.

Tracking the Shipment of Steroids

The issuance of a search warrant against the powerlifter was based on the report and cooperation of the postal service. Postal inspectors intercepted a package of steroid which is bound to a Kennewick apartment. They placed an alarm system inside the box which will notify the authorities once it is opened. During the search, police found the shipment of steroids in a safe. It was also alleged that other steroids were also confiscated. Court documents also revealed that Kennelly was in possession of $20,000 cash and $80,000 worth of gold coins.

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