The defence has begun presenting its case in the federal welfare fraud trial of Ted DiBiase Jr., following the conclusion of the prosecution’s arguments.
According to WJTV 12 News, defence attorneys moved to have the charges dismissed after the prosecution rested, arguing that the evidence was insufficient. Judge Carlton Reeves denied the request, allowing the trial to continue. The defence then called Kevin McClendon, who worked with Ted DiBiase Jr. on a proposed “Get Fit Mississippi” app that was never released.
The former WWE star faces 13 charges, including conspiracy, wire fraud, theft concerning federally funded programmes, and money laundering. If convicted, he could face significant prison time, including up to 20 years per wire fraud count.
Allegations Against Ted DiBiase Jr. Outline Multi-Million Dollar Welfare Scheme
Prosecutors allege Ted DiBiase Jr. was involved in a scheme to obtain approximately $3.5 million in federal welfare funds intended for low-income families through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and Emergency Food Assistance programmes. Funds were reportedly routed through two nonprofits before being awarded to DiBiase via contracts. Several individuals connected to the case, including Nancy New, Christi Webb, and DiBiase’s brother Brett, have already pleaded guilty.
Financial records presented in court showed a sharp increase in deposits to DiBiase’s accounts after the contracts began, with prosecutors claiming he used the funds for personal purchases, including a home, boat, tractor, and vehicle. Witnesses also testified that no expense or activity reports were submitted.
Former Mississippi Department of Human Services director John Davis testified that he continued directing funds to DiBiase despite knowing he could not fulfill the contract requirements, and claimed DiBiase was aware of the intended use of the money.
The defence maintains that DiBiase performed legitimate work and did not misuse funds, arguing that the contracts did not require detailed reporting or restrict how the money could be spent. Testimony during cross-examination indicated that DiBiase was not informed that his work fell short of expectations.
The trial, which resumed after a pause due to illness affecting DiBiase’s lead attorney, continues in federal court in Jackson, Mississippi.
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