Former WWF Star Mike Droese Set for Court in Attempted Child Exploitation Case

Former WWF wrestler Mike “Duke ‘The Dumpster’” Droese is officially heading toward a critical moment in his legal battle.

A new court hearing has been scheduled for August 27 at 9:30 AM in Warren County, Tennessee, where Droese will either enter a plea or proceed to trial on one count of Attempted Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

Droese was initially set for arraignment back in May, but that hearing was delayed. According to a statement from District Attorney General Chris Stanford, this update means a resolution—or a court date—is coming soon.

“Michael Droese was recently indicted during the May Session of the Warren County Grand Jury on one count of Attempted Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. My decision to seek the indictment… came after a brief but very effective investigation by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.”

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Authorities allege that Droese attempted to purchase child sexual assault material from the dark web using his Coinbase account in April 2024. Although the transaction was flagged and terminated before completion, the intent behind the action was deemed criminal.

“Purchasing child sexual assault material is an aggravated crime because the money used to purchase the material is what continues to make child sexual assault material profitable for criminal enterprises.”

The FBI first received the tip from Coinbase, which was later passed to the Warren County Sheriff’s Department on March 19, 2025. A TBI special agent quickly launched a follow-up investigation, culminating in the grand jury indictment.

Stanford added that Droese, who was working as a DUI coordinator for the 31st Judicial District Adult Recovery Court at the time, was fired immediately upon arrest. Officials confirmed he never worked with minors in that position.

“While it is certainly concerning… rest assured that at no point during his service… was [Droese] ever given a job duty that mandated any contact with children.”

If convicted, Droese faces 2 to 4 years in prison for the Class D felony. The August 27 hearing will determine whether a plea deal is made or if the case proceeds to trial.

How should the wrestling industry respond to these serious charges against one of its former performers? Drop your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.