Mississippi State Auditor Shad White has launched a countersuit against former NFL quarterback Brett Favre, alleging that Favre is responsible for nearly $729,000 in interest linked to the misuse of over $1 million in state welfare funds. The funds were allocated to Favre for speaking engagements that were purportedly left incomplete, forming part of a significant scandal implicating Favre and others in the improper use of welfare funds for personal projects.
The filing from White’s office reveals that although Favre reimbursed the $1.1 million in two installments during 2020 and 2021, he still owes statutory interest amounting to $437,000 and $292,790. White contends that Favre lacked a legal right to possess or control the $1.1 million. Information uncovered after May 2020 revealed that Favre’s involvement in the “welfare scandal” was more extensive than initially believed.
The counterclaim was lodged amid a defamation lawsuit that Favre filed against White in the previous year. This lawsuit accuses the auditor of making defamatory remarks concerning Favre and the $1.1 million in welfare funds. Favre has consistently denied any wrongdoing in the case and has not faced criminal charges. His attorneys have not immediately responded to inquiries.
In the broader context, Mississippi authorities assert that approximately $77 million, designated for low-income residents, was misused on projects primarily supported by wealthy individuals. Prosecutors allege that a significant portion of these funds, obtained from federal grants, was channeled from the state government to a private nonprofit, which purportedly distributed the funds through a series of deceptive contracts. While several public officials and nonprofit leaders have been implicated in the scandal, Favre has not been accused of criminal activities.
A pharmaceutical company, focusing on concussion treatments and reportedly endorsed by Favre, allegedly received $2.15 million in state funds. Favre was also accused of steering funds towards a volleyball court for his alma mater, the University of Southern Mississippi, where his daughter played volleyball. He publicly stated that he was unaware that welfare-designated funds were intended for him or the university.
In a related tangent, Favre initiated lawsuits against ex-NFL players and media commentators Shannon Sharpe and Pat McAfee over statements related to him and the funds. The lawsuit against McAfee was dropped after a public apology, while the case against Sharpe was dismissed by a judge in November.