by Columbus, OH – Federal authorities have arrested Justin Salsburey, 43, the family bodyguard of Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, along with his wife, Ruthann Rankin, on federal drug trafficking charges after investigators discovered a large cache of fentanyl, methamphetamine, MDMA, and steroids at the couple’s home. The arrests were made on December 30, 2025, following a detailed investigation by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and other federal agencies.
Bodyguard Linked to Extensive Drug Operation
Salsburey was employed by a private security firm contracted by Ramaswamy’s family to provide protective services. A campaign spokesperson confirmed that the firm immediately removed him from duty after learning of the arrests.
“Upon being informed of this matter in recent days, the outside security firm immediately removed the individual from the security detail,” said Connie Luck, spokesperson for Ramaswamy.
“Prior to employment, the individual cleared multiple background checks conducted by the security company, as well as FBI and BCI background checks… Vivek and his family take matters of safety seriously and support efforts to hold these individuals accountable for these allegations if they are proven.”
Federal authorities said the couple allegedly operated a sophisticated drug trafficking operation that involved receiving multiple packages via mail, often purchased with cryptocurrency, which is commonly associated with darknet marketplace transactions. Investigators traced 31 parcels sent to their home between August 1, 2024, and December 22, 2025.
Discovery of Drugs and Evidence
A “trash pull” at the couple’s residence revealed empty vials, syringes, and baggies that tested positive for fentanyl. In late November, USPIS intercepted a package containing approximately 119 grams of blue pills consistent with counterfeit OxyContin that tested positive for fentanyl.
Authorities also monitored the couple leaving items in a small cooler on their porch, which were later picked up by others. One individual who retrieved an item from the cooler told investigators that he purchased Adderall from the couple at $5 per pill. A subsequent investigation confirmed that the retrieved object, a Zyn nicotine container, contained approximately 11 grams of methamphetamine.
A federal search of the Salsburey-Rankin home uncovered:
- 264 grams of fentanyl
- 938 grams of methamphetamine
- 19 grams of MDMA
- Various other controlled substances and steroids
- Multiple nicotine pouch containers used to conceal drugs
Rankin, a schoolteacher and competitive bodybuilder, told investigators that Salsburey “started selling steroids and this progressed into selling other drugs,” according to the affidavit.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Both Salsburey and Rankin have been charged with:
- Conspiracy to distribute or intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and methamphetamine
- Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine
Authorities described the case as part of a larger effort to combat illegal drug trafficking networks in Ohio, particularly those using the postal system to distribute highly dangerous synthetic opioids.
Public Safety and Awareness
Federal officials caution the public about the dangers of fentanyl and methamphetamine, noting that even small amounts can be lethal. They urged anyone with information about illegal drug distribution networks to contact law enforcement immediately.
“The widespread distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine poses a severe risk to communities,” a USPIS spokesperson said. “This case highlights the importance of monitoring packages and postal shipments to prevent deadly drugs from entering neighborhoods.”
The campaign and security firm emphasized that Salsburey’s alleged actions were not connected to the candidate or his family, and that strict background checks and random drug testing had been in place.
Final Words
The arrests of Justin Salsburey and Ruthann Rankin reveal a dangerous and extensive drug trafficking operation involving synthetic opioids, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances. Federal authorities continue to investigate the scope of the operation and ensure accountability for those involved.
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