Ex-wrestler Teddy DiBiase Jr. found not guilty in Mississippi welfare scandal
A federal jury in Mississippi has found Teddy DiBiase Jr., a former professional wrestler turned entrepreneur, not guilty on all counts in a high-profile welfare fraud case. The jury reached its verdict after about four hours of deliberation, acquitting DiBiase of conspiracy, wire fraud, theft, and money laundering charges.
DiBiase, who had been accused of accepting nearly $3 million in federal funds intended to help impoverished residents and spending the money on luxury items, was emotional as the verdict was read. He tightly embraced his wife, Kristen, outside the courthouse. His mother, Melanie DiBiase, was visibly upset, sobbing as she exited the courtroom.
The prosecution argued that DiBiase knowingly participated in the scheme, while his defense maintained he was unaware of any wrongdoing. They claimed he was offered the funds in exchange for his reputation and that he simply delivered on the promises made. The defense also argued that DiBiase never solicited the funds.
DiBiase, a one-time WWE star, is among eight individuals charged in connection with the welfare scandal. Seven others pleaded guilty, while DiBiase maintained his innocence. The scandal involved the misappropriation of an estimated $100 million from 2016 to 2019 through the Families First for Mississippi program, which was intended to combat poverty.
Following the verdict, DiBiase expressed his intent to continue serving the community. Outside the courthouse, he shared his feelings and sent a message of forgiveness to those who doubted him. Meanwhile, state officials, including State Auditor Shad White, emphasized their ongoing efforts to recover misused funds through civil litigation.
Other defendants, including former Mississippi Department of Human Services Director John Davis and nonprofit leaders Nancy New and Christi Webb, remain in legal proceedings. A parallel civil suit is also ongoing, seeking to recoup the funds involved in the scheme.
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