Nationwide — Former professional wrestler Ted DiBiase Jr., who was accused of taking thousands and thousands in welfare funds, was cleared of all 13 fees after a seven-year authorized battle. The jury reached a not responsible verdict in simply 4 hours.
DiBiase confronted fees together with wire fraud, theft, cash laundering, and conspiracy. Prosecutors claimed he pocketed $2.9 million meant to assist needy households in what grew to become the state’s largest public welfare scandal. All through the trial, DiBiase insisted he earned the cash legally and by no means took a cent unlawfully.
When the decision was learn, the courtroom erupted. DiBiase broke down in tears, thanking God and his attorneys for his or her efforts. “Seven years of being slandered and made to be one thing that’s utterly false has about torn my household aside however we’re robust,” he advised WLBT.
Outdoors the courthouse, DiBiase embraced his brother Brett, additionally a former wrestler. “It nonetheless hasn’t sank in. It’s been so lengthy that this cloud has lived over me. I’m simply grateful for it to be over, and I’m grateful I get to go dwelling,” he stated.
Throughout deliberations, the jury requested the choose whether or not “fraud” meant DiBiase needed to personally commit it or if it included actions by others. Protection lawyer Scott Gilbert stated the be aware gave him hope the jury understood the total story.
“These jurors heard the entire story. Not a part of the story, not a slanted story, not an abridge model. They received the whole story, after which they adopted the legislation and made the proper choice on this case,” he stated.
Now free from bond situations, DiBiase plans to return to a quiet life with household. “I’m going to reside once more. I’m going to proceed to serve folks as a result of that basically is who I’m. I do care about each Mississippian, and to all of the doubters or haters or people who have possibly had false info and never all the data, I forgive you, and I like you too,” he stated.
