A federal lawsuit involving former WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr. has reached a significant development after his request to declare a miscarriage of justice was rejected. PWInsider reports that the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi denied DiBiase’s motion despite the defense citing lead attorney Jason Scott Gilbert’s medical emergency as a reason to pause the trial.
DiBiase’s legal team argued that Gilbert’s health issues prevented him from continuing, asking for the trial to be postponed until Gilbert recovered. However, Judge Carlton Reeves declined the mistrial request, explaining that restarting the trial would be especially challenging due to extensive media coverage in Mississippi. Instead, the court decided that a new, court-approved attorney would take over immediately, with the court covering the legal fees, while DiBiase will cover travel and incidental costs. Should Gilbert recover before the trial’s continuation, he may resume his role. The trial, halted since late January, is now scheduled to resume on February 22.
DiBiase was detained in April 2023 on several charges connected to a $77 million welfare fraud scheme in Mississippi. These charges include one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and theft, six counts of wire fraud, two counts of theft related to federal programs, and four counts of money laundering. If found guilty, DiBiase could face up to 20 years for wire fraud, 10 years for theft and money laundering, and five years for conspiracy. Prosecutors claim DiBiase unlawfully obtained federal welfare funds meant for Mississippi’s neediest residents, though they acknowledge payments made for legitimate services.
What do you think about the court’s decision to deny the motion for a miscarriage of justice? Should the trial have waited for DiBiase’s attorney to recover fully? Share your views below.
Fan Take: This case spotlights the challenges WWE talents may face outside the ring, affecting their public image and career. For fans, it’s a reminder that wrestlers’ real-life troubles can impact the sport’s reputation and storylines moving forward.
