More information has come to light following former WWE star Ted DiBiase Jr.’s indictment.
As previously reported, DiBiase Jr. has been charged with “one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and to commit theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, six counts of wire fraud, two counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, and four counts of money laundering.”
Per Mike Johnson of PWInsider, DiBiase faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the conspiracy charge, and up to a $250,000 fine, a maximum of 20 years in prison, and up to a $250,000 fine on the wire fraud counts. Additionally, he faces up to five years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine for the charges of theft involving federal funds, a maximum of ten years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine for charges of “Monetary Transactions in Excess of $10,000 with the Proceeds of Specified Unlawful Activity.” In total, he faces up to potentially 45 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000.
Later, Johnson noted that DiBiase could face up to 80 years in prison because each wire fraud count has a maximum penalty of 20 years. Each count of theft and money laundering has a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
DiBiase plead not guilty to all charges in court on April 20 and was released on an unsecured $10,000 bond. He must inform the court before changing his residence or phone number, and he was told not to break any laws while released. DiBiase must also provide the court with a DNA sample if requested.
WAPT-TV asked DIBiase for comment when he was leaving the court. DiBiase’s lawyer was unsuccessful in their attempt to stopping him from speaking. Per Johnson, DiBiase said, “Jesus loves you, brother. God bless you, man. That’s it.”
According to the prosecutors, DiBiase tested positive for marijuana and Adderall the morning of his arrest. DiBiase’s attorney claimed the marijuana test result was a result of hemp oil and a CBD gummy. Per DiBiase’s attorney, he has been diagnosed with ADHD, and he has been using his brother’s prescription Adderall.
DiBiase is due back in court on June 19.
Ted DiBiase Sr. also issued a statement, which he later deleted, and referenced the charges without addressing them directly.
WrestleZone will provide more information as it becomes available.
