The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) has taken a significant step in its lawsuit to recover misspent welfare funds by filing notice of its intent to depose former NFL quarterback Brett Favre. The agency’s lawyers are scheduled to take Favre’s sworn testimony beginning on October 26 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This deposition marks the first time Favre will be questioned regarding his alleged involvement in the case. Despite the anticipation surrounding the deposition, those involved in the proceedings have remained tight-lipped due to a judge’s gag order. Favre’s lawyer declined to comment, and an MDHS spokesman chose not to answer questions.
While many questions remain unanswered, it is important to note that Favre, 53, has denied any wrongdoing in relation to the case. Additionally, he has not faced any criminal charges thus far. Favre’s alleged involvement came to light in May 2022 when he was named as one of 38 original defendants in MDHS’s lawsuit. The agency seeks to recoup at least $77 million in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds that were allegedly diverted from impoverished families to individuals with significant wealth and power in Mississippi. As of May 2023, there are 47 defendants involved in the case.
At the center of the dispute between MDHS and Favre is a volleyball facility constructed in 2019 at Favre’s alma mater, the University of Southern Mississippi. Favre donated his own funds and helped raise additional money for the facility. The lawsuit has brought to light text messages indicating that Favre pursued state officials for financial support while his daughter was a member of the team. The university’s athletic foundation received $5 million in TANF funds, according to a state audit and the lawsuit. Furthermore, it is alleged that Favre received $1.1 million in TANF funds for speeches he allegedly never delivered. Although he eventually repaid the amount, the auditor has demanded an additional $228,000 in interest. TANF funds were also directed to Prevacus, a company developing a concussion drug in which Favre held a significant investment and stockholding.
Indictments and Suppression Orders
To date, eight individuals have been indicted in connection with the case, with six of them having pleaded guilty for their involvement. In an effort to limit pretrial publicity, a Hinds County judge has issued a suppression order, which will remain in effect until the case goes to trial or is otherwise resolved. In addition to Brett Favre, MDHS has also sought a deposition from former Southern Miss president Rodney Bennett. However, Bennett’s deposition, scheduled for October 31, is set to take place in Lincoln, Nebraska, as he has recently been appointed chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. MDHS has also subpoenaed Bennett for his communications with Favre and other individuals implicated in the case.
The deposition of Brett Favre by the Mississippi Department of Human Services marks a significant development in the lawsuit aimed at recovering misspent welfare funds. While Favre maintains his innocence and has not faced criminal charges, the lawsuit has shed light on alleged diversion of funds meant for needy families in Mississippi. The outcome of this case has the potential to impact both Favre’s reputation and the recovery of millions of dollars for those in need. As the legal proceedings continue, the deposition will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment in unraveling the complexities of this ongoing controversy.
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