Former WWE Star Indicted for Attempted Child Exploitation

Former WWE wrestler Michael Droese, known as Duke 'The Dumpster' Droese, has been indicted in Tennessee on one count of attempted aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor after allegedly trying to purchase child sexual abuse material on the dark web using cryptocurrency. The transaction was blocked and flagged by Coinbase, which notified the FBI, leading to an investigation by local and state authorities. Droese was employed as a DUI coordinator with the 31st Judicial District Adult Recovery Court Program at the time, but officials confirmed he did not have direct contact with children in this role. He turned himself in following the indictment, was booked, and released on a $10,000 bond. Droese was immediately terminated from his position after the charges were brought, and his next court appearance is scheduled for May 28. The charges are considered 'attempted' because the purchase was never completed, but prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the offense due to the intent to purchase such material.