Federal Court: McMahon’s Lawyer Wrongly Withheld Documents from Grand Jury

One Big Thing

The 2nd U.S. Court of Appeals in New York ruled that Vince McMahon’s attorney improperly withheld over 208 documents from a federal grand jury investigation, citing that attorney-client privilege doesn’t apply due to a “crime or fraud” exception.

Why It Matters

This ruling confirms the federal investigation into McMahon remains active, contradicting suggestions that it had concluded following January’s SEC settlement.

Key Details

• The appeals court upheld a lower court’s decision against McMahon’s attorney
• Prosecutors believe McMahon and his attorney tried to:
  • Bypass WWE’s internal controls
  • Create false records
  • Conceal employee claims and settlements
  • Make misleading statements to company auditors
• The ruling states these proceedings are “currently before a grand jury”

By The Numbers

• 208+ documents were withheld from the grand jury
• Multiple settlement agreements are under investigation

What They’re Saying

Both the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan and McMahon’s legal team have declined to comment on the ruling.

The Bigger Picture

This development runs parallel to the ongoing civil lawsuit filed by Janel Grant, which accuses McMahon and John Laurinaitis of sex trafficking and abuse.

What’s Next

The ruling suggests the federal investigation continues, though its current status remains undisclosed.

What do you think this ruling means for McMahon’s future in the wrestling industry? Share your thoughts in the comments below.