7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Opening statements are expected Monday in the fraud trial of seven people charged in what federal prosecutors have called a massive scheme to exploit lax rules during the COVID-19 pandemic and steal from a program meant to provide meals to children in Minnesota.
The seven will be the first of 70 defendants to go on trial in the alleged scam. Eighteen others have already pleaded guilty.
Prosecutors have said the seven collectively stole over $40 million in a conspiracy that cost taxpayers $250 million — one of the largest pandemic-related fraud cases in the country. Federal authorities say they have recovered about $50 million.
Prosecutors say just a fraction of the money went to feed low-income kids, and that the rest was spent on luxury cars, jewelry, travel and property.
THE ALLEGED PLOT
The food aid came from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and was administered by the state Department of Education. Nonprofits and other partners under the program were supposed to serve meals to kids.
Related articles
Justin Timberlake set to bring his The Forget Tomorrow World Tour to Australia in 2025
Justin Timberlake is set to bring his The Forget Tomorrow World Tour to Australia next year.Daily Ma2024-05-21Gone fishing... for some of New Zealand's trickiest trout: A stay at the world
The rotor blades are deafening as our chopper swoops down onto a rocky outcrop beside the Mokihinui2024-05-21- Kylie Jenner channeled old Hollywood glamour for her red carpet look at the star-studded 2024 Met Ga2024-05-21
Police investigating shooting outside Drake's mansion that left security guard wounded
TORONTO (AP) — Police are investigating a shooting outside rapper Drake’s mansion in Toronto that le2024-05-21Biden says Brown v. Board of Education ruling was about more than education
WASHINGTON (AP) — The landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling that desegregated schools was about more th2024-05-21Oklahoma State hires Olympic gold medalist David Taylor as wrestling coach
Oklahoma State has hired Olympic gold medalist David Taylor as its wrestling coach to replace John S2024-05-21
atest comment