Memphis, TN — A Memphis Business Academy football coach was arrested on October 30 in connection with a drug trafficking conspiracy spanning parts of the Mississippi Delta and Memphis, according to court records.
Torio Chaz Wiseman, who coached both the high school and middle school football teams, now faces four felony charges for his alleged role in the scheme. His arrest has sent shockwaves through the Memphis athletic community just days before the start of the postseason playoffs.
Allegations and Indictment Details
The indictment alleges that Wiseman was part of a multi-state drug trafficking operation that included over a dozen suspects — many of them law enforcement officers in Mississippi. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the conspiracy involved smuggling cocaine from Mississippi to Memphis with the help of armed escorts.
“Fourteen of the 19 individuals arrested were law enforcement officers in Mississippi,” prosecutors said. “They allegedly provided armed protection to undercover agents posing as Mexican Cartel traffickers.”
The charges claim the group arranged three separate armed escorts for what they believed were drug shipments between 2023 and 2024.
As reported by The Commercial Appeal, Wiseman was granted bond on October 30, the same day of his arrest. It remains unclear whether he is still employed by Memphis Business Academy (MBA).
School Response and Employment Status
Attempts to contact MBA Athletic Director Jerry Anthony for comment were unsuccessful, and the school has not released an official statement. The arrest has created uncertainty about Wiseman’s future with the academy, which has gained recognition for its competitive football program in recent years.
“It was not immediately clear if Wiseman was still employed by the school,” The Commercial Appeal noted.
Wiseman was hired by MBA in 2023 and had quickly made an impact on both the high school and middle school programs.
Connection to Law Enforcement Corruption
The indictment has drawn widespread attention because the majority of those arrested — 14 out of 19 individuals — were law enforcement officers. Prosecutors say these officers worked directly with undercover federal agents, believing they were helping Mexican Cartel members transport cocaine.
The operation has since been described as one of the largest corruption-based drug trafficking cases in the region’s recent history.
Impact on the Football Program
Wiseman’s arrest comes at a critical moment for the Memphis Business Academy football team. The Execs finished their regular season with a 6–4 record and are set to travel to Huntingdon on November 7 at 7 p.m. for the start of the TSSAA Class 2A playoffs.
Under Wiseman’s leadership, MBA reached the state quarterfinals in each of the previous two seasons. His sudden arrest leaves the team without its head coach during a crucial part of the postseason.
“Coach Wiseman had led the Execs to consecutive playoff appearances, bringing renewed confidence to the program,” a parent of one player said. “This news has left everyone stunned.”
Ongoing Investigation
Federal investigators continue to review evidence tied to the trafficking network. One of the 19 individuals originally charged has since had their case dismissed, though prosecutors say additional charges could still be filed as the investigation develops.
Wiseman, now out on bond, is expected to appear before a federal court later this month.
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