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 Ma2024-05-21- Wheat Harvesters by photographer Hou Dengke records a group of people who made their living on cutti2024-05-21
China's forex reserves down in January
(ECNS) -- China's forex reserves came in at 3.2193 trillion U.S. dollars at the end of January 2024,2024-05-21Chinese, Belarusian Presidents Pledge to Enhance Ties
Contact Us HomeNewsHighlightACWF NewsSocietyWom2024-05-21NBA playoffs: Edwards leads Wolves to 98
DENVER (AP) — Anthony Edwards overcame a slow start and the Timberwolves roared back from a 20-point2024-05-21- Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in Hunan province2024-05-21
atest comment