Jack Warner allegedly diverted FIFA Haiti relief funds, report says

Former FIFA Vice President Jack Warner has steadfastly proclaimed his innocence since being indicted on racketeering, bribery, money laundering and fraud charges as part of an ongoing federal corruption investigation.

However, it appears more evidence is being stacked up against the Trinidad and Tobago politician.

Citing documents tied to the U.S. probe, the BBC reported Monday that Warner is under investigation for allegedly diverting funds earmarked for Haiti earthquake relief to bank accounts he controlled.

According to the report, a total of $750,000 from FIFA and the Korean Football Assn. was slated to provide aid to victims of the devastating 7.0-magnitude Haiti earthquake in January 2010. Instead, the funds were placed in accounts controlled by Warner for his “personal use.”

U.S. authorities are continuing to look at Warner’s financial transactions related to FIFA through the 75 bank accounts he controlled, the BBC said.

Warner, 72, surrendered to authorities in Trinidad and Tobago on May 27, hours after he was among 14 people with ties to soccer’s international governing body who were indicted on corruption charges by U.S. authorities. He is facing extradition to the U.S.