FBI Steps Up Efforts to Stop Fraud in Minnesota
The FBI is sending more people and resources to Minnesota to fight large fraud schemes that are taking advantage of federal programs, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.
Patel said the FBI increased its presence in the state before a recent online video brought attention to the issue. He pointed to the “Feeding Our Future” investigation, which uncovered a $250 million fraud scheme where money meant to feed children during the COVID-19 pandemic was stolen.
So far, the case has led to 78 indictments and 57 convictions. Prosecutors have also charged people in a separate case for allegedly trying to bribe a juror with $120,000. Patel said the investigation is still ongoing.
“The FBI believes this is just the start. We will keep following the money and protecting children, and this investigation is very much ongoing,” he said. He also noted that some individuals may face immigration consequences, such as deportation, if applicable.
This announcement follows a video posted online by journalist Nick Shirley that showed possible fraud involving Minnesota childcare centers. The video showed that many of these centers appeared to be closed, even though they were supposedly receiving millions of dollars in government money.
Republican leaders, like House Majority Whip Tom Emmer and Representative Mike Lawler, have criticized Governor Tim Walz for not doing enough to stop the fraud. Emmer said Walz has “sat idly by while billions were stolen from hardworking Minnesotans.”
The video also comes after some Minnesota state employees accused Walz of ignoring warnings about widespread fraud and punishing those who reported it.
A group of these employees claimed that Walz is “100% responsible for massive fraud in Minnesota.” They said they tried to warn him about the fraud early on, but instead of helping, he retaliated against them.
Walz addressed the fraud in November, saying it “undermines trust in government” and “undermines programs that are absolutely critical in improving quality of life.”
He added, “If you’re committing fraud, no matter where you come from, what you look like, what you believe, you are going to go to jail.”
Reports indicate that what seemed like a small case of fraud related to the pandemic has turned into a bigger problem for officials. It is alleged that over the past five years, several fraud schemes have grown in some parts of Minnesota’s Somali community. Some people are accused of creating fake companies that billed the state for social services that were never provided.
