Star witness John Davis takes stand in federal case involving millions in misspent welfare funds
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – A former Mississippi welfare official testified Friday that he steered contracts and jobs to former professional wrestler Ted DiBiase Jr. using money intended for the state’s poorest residents.
John Davis, the former executive director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services, spent more than seven hours on the witness stand during Day 4 of DiBiase’s federal trial.
Davis is the highest-ranking individual indicted in the welfare fraud scandal.
DiBiase faces charges of money laundering, theft, wire fraud, and conspiracy. Prosecutors accuse him of pocketing nearly $4 million in welfare dollars, concealing the money through fake contracts, and using the funds for personal benefit.
Key witness details relationship with DiBiase brothers
Davis testified that he had a close relationship with both Ted and Brett DiBiase. He said he steered contracts to the two brothers using money that was supposed to be spent on welfare needs. Davis also gave them jobs with the agency.
Davis and Brett DiBiase have pleaded guilty in the scandal, both admitting to their wrongdoing. Ted DiBiase continues to fight the allegations.
Defense strategy emerges
Defense attorneys continued arguing that Davis is the villain, not their client.
They allege it was Davis who manipulated the system and that MDHS failed to properly administer federal funding. The defense also argues DiBiase was used as a pawn in the process.
DiBiase is the only person connected to the scandal who has not pleaded guilty.
Davis will return to the witness stand Monday morning when court begins at 9 a.m.
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