An unexpected twist has slowed down the federal fraud case involving former WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr., as his legal team has now requested a mistrial due to health issues.
According to WJTV, DiBiase Jr.s lead attorney, Scott Gilbert, will be unavailable for three to four weeks due to a medical issue. In response, the defense asked the judge to postpone the trial for no less than three months, arguing that no other attorney could take over and learn the complexities of the case within that time.
The judge asked when the defense would like to resume proceedings, and the response made it clear: not before a full quarter has passed. Prosecutors pushed back, noting that DiBiase Jr. still has two attorneys on his legal team and that delaying the trial could affect the availability of key witnesses.
The complications dont end there. One of the governments most crucial witnesses, John Davis, the former Mississippi Department of Human Services executive director, is currently undergoing cancer treatment. Its uncertain whether hell be able to continue testifying at all.
Ted DiBiase Jr. stands accused of fraudulently obtaining federal welfare funds, including money from The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Prosecutors allege he used the funds for personal purchases such as a boat, a vehicle, and a down payment on a home. DiBiase Jr. faces serious federal charges:
- 1 count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and theft concerning programs receiving federal funds
- 6 counts of wire fraud
- 2 counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds
- 4 counts of money laundering
If convicted, he could face:
- Up to 5 years in prison for the conspiracy charge
- Up to 20 years for each wire fraud charge
- Up to 10 years for each theft and money laundering charge
Adding to the story, his brother Brett DiBiase has already pleaded guilty to state and federal charges connected to the same scandal. With the defense asking for significant delays and health concerns impacting both sides of the case, the future of this trial remains in limbo.
Do you think Ted DiBiase Jr.s trial should be paused for months, or should the case move forward with the current legal team in place? Share your thoughts in the comments.
