Former MDHS Director Testifies That Ted DiBiase Jr. Was Aware That Funds He Received Were Intended For Needy Families

An update on the trial.

John Davis, who is the former executive director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services, took the stand in federal court and testified that former WWE talent Ted DiBiase Jr. was aware that the funds he received was federal money that was intended for needy families.

Davis was a witness for the prosecution on day five of DiBiase Jr.’s trial. The former wrestler is facing charges of misappropriating federal welfare funds.

He is facing a 13-count federal fraud case that includes charges such as conspiracy, wire fraud, theft concerning programs receiving federal programs and money laundering.

Davis said DiBiase Jr. knew the money directed to his companies came from the anti-poverty grants. He shared that he communicated about the source of the funding. In 2022, Davis pleaded guilty to state and federal charges related to the misuse of welfare funds, and as part of his plea deal, he is cooperating with the federal government.

Davis testified that DiBiase Jr. received payments averaging approxmiately $30,000 per week, while some agency employees earned annual salaries of roughly $18,000.