Michael Droese, often known as Duke “The Dumpster” Droese in WWE through the Nineteen Nineties, was indicted in Could 2025 by a Warren County, Tennessee, grand jury for tried aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor. On April 21, 2024, Droese allegedly tried to buy little one sexual assault materials on the darkish net utilizing a Coinbase account. The transaction was flagged and blocked by Coinbase, which notified the FBI. The FBI tipped off the Warren County Sheriff’s Division on March 29, 2025, resulting in an investigation. Droese was charged with a Class D felony, labeled “tried” for the reason that buy was not accomplished. He surrendered to authorities, was booked, and launched on a $10,000 bond, with a courtroom date set for Could 28, 2025.
On the time, Droese labored because the DUI Coordinator for the thirty first Judicial District Grownup Restoration Courtroom Program however was terminated instantly upon the indictment. Authorities confirmed he had no job duties involving kids. Droese, who wrestled in WWE from 1994 to 1996, had prior authorized points, together with a 2013 resignation from a educating job after promoting oxycodone to an spy, for which he served a month in jail.
Skeptics would possibly notice the case hinges on a flagged transaction with out accomplished buy, elevating questions on intent versus motion, although the authorized system treats tried acquisition significantly. The swift response from Coinbase and regulation enforcement highlights sturdy monitoring methods, however some may argue it displays overreach in policing incomplete acts.
