Jurors in Mississippi on Friday found Ted “Teddy” DiBiase Jr., a former professional wrestler and entrepreneur, not guilty of all 13 federal charges related to a welfare fraud scheme. The jury reached its verdict after about four hours of deliberation.
Prosecutors accused DiBiase of accepting nearly $3 million in federal funds meant to aid impoverished residents and spending the money on luxury items. He was one of dozens linked to the scheme, which involved the Families First for Mississippi program under a now-disgraced former agency director.
DiBiase was among eight individuals criminally charged in connection with the misappropriation. Seven of those defendants pleaded guilty, while DiBiase’s case marked a key moment in the investigation. The verdict addresses a long-standing question about whether his conduct constituted a crime.
Several other individuals involved in the case await sentencing, including former Mississippi Department of Human Services Director John Davis and nonprofit leaders Nancy New and Christi Webb. A total of approximately $100 million was reportedly misspent between 2016 and 2019, with few beneficiaries of the funds.
The case remains part of a broader investigation into welfare fraud in Mississippi, which has garnered significant public and legal attention. The story will be updated as new developments emerge.
