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Man accused of bilking more than $30 million from federal Lifeline program

Lifeline is a federal program that pays back phone companies for providing discounts to low income families.

Cox is accused of bilking more than $30 million from the program by submitting false claims.

No one came to the gate of Cox's lavish home in Arlington, but neighbors say he is a respected businessman and said he worked with a phone company.

The government says Cox and two Florida partners spent the money on a yacht, several automobiles, and put the money in several bank accounts. Cox is charged with wire fraud, false claims, and money laundering.

Michael Clark did some digging and learned that Cox is listed as co-owner of King Homes, which was just licensed as a new business by City of Bartlett. It sits in a building property listed in the indictment.

After searching records, more than 200 properties were found that may be affected by the court proceedings. There is no allegation in the indictment that any of the properties were used in the alleged money laundering scheme.

Paperwork shows the federal government just informed the Shelby County Register's Office that it plans to forfeit several properties all across the city depending on the outcome of the court case.

It is unclear what would happen to the people or businesses using the properties in question.