Federal prosecutors in Manhattan have concluded a criminal investigation into former World Wrestling Entertainment boss Vince McMahon’s alleged cover-up of sexual misconduct allegations, according to his attorney.
An appeals court ruling revealed that a grand jury had been examining whether the 78-year-old billionaire concealed accusations of sexual misconduct from two former female employees, whom he reportedly paid $10.5 million to maintain their silence.
Although the ruling did not mention McMahon by name, sources familiar with the matter confirmed his involvement in the case.
McMahon’s lawyer, Robert W. Allen, stated that the prosecutors have formally closed the investigation without seeking an indictment against his client.
Despite a federal judge finding probable cause that McMahon and his former lawyer violated the law, prosecutors have decided to drop the case.
The appeals court ruled in favor of prosecutors, indicating that McMahon’s conversations with his attorneys were not protected by attorney-client privilege.
Prosecutors’ decision to abandon the case reportedly occurred around the time the Securities and Exchange Commission settled with McMahon on the cover-up allegations.
McMahon released a statement following the SEC settlement, downplaying the seriousness of the probe and expressing relief that the matter was resolved.
The Wall Street Journal initially reported the federal investigation into McMahon’s alleged misconduct, which later shifted focus to the cover-up allegations.
If the criminal probe has indeed concluded without charges, it would mark the second time McMahon has avoided conviction in a federal investigation.
McMahon’s wife, Linda McMahon, is currently undergoing a Senate confirmation hearing for the position of Department of Education secretary.
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Original: The cat chased the mouse around the house.
Rewritten: The mouse was chased around the house by the cat.
