A sprawling fraud scheme that exploited a federally funded children’s nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in 70 indictments in Minnesota, with authorities calling it “one of the worst” cases in the state’s history.
FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the scheme in a statement to Fox News, saying the fraud involved stealing more than $250 million meant to feed vulnerable children during a time of crisis. Instead, conspirators used the funds to bankroll mansions, luxury cars, and extravagant lifestyles.
“Stealing over $250 million from hungry kids during a pandemic to fund mansions and luxury cars is as shameless as it gets,” Patel said. “I’m proud of the FBI and our partners for dismantling this web of corruption, holding dozens accountable, and sending a clear message: if you exploit the most vulnerable, we will find you and bring you to justice.”
The fraud centered around the “Feeding our Future” program, a federal initiative designed to reimburse states for feeding children amid pandemic disruptions. During COVID-19, the U.S. Department of Agriculture temporarily waived many participation requirements, including rules on food distribution sites outside traditional schools.
According to court documents, about 300 purported “food sites” across Minnesota either served little to no food or did not exist at all. Fraudsters fabricated invoices, faked attendance records, and created sham food vendors and organizations that laundered the millions intended to nourish children.
Of the 70 indicted, 38 individuals have pleaded guilty, and more than a dozen await trial, with the next case set for August 11. FBI Special Agent in Charge Alvin Winston called the fraud “a profound betrayal of public trust,” emphasizing that the stolen federal funds were meant to support families facing hardship.
“Stealing from the federal government equates to stealing from the American people — there is no simpler truth,” Winston said. “We will uncover their schemes, dismantle their networks, and ensure that they are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
The investigation remains active, with additional charges expected. The scandal has already spurred legislative reforms in Minnesota aimed at tightening oversight and preventing future abuse of vital public assistance programs.
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Tampon Tim. Right under his nose. Wow what a piece of crap or maybe he was up to his neck in it himself
I wonder how much went into Tim Walz’s pocket???
IMHO stealing at any level is just wrong but stealing from kids is ‘almost’ as bad as the fraudsters who steal monies donated to charities helping communities recover from disasters. There is at least one individual in my area who donated 10K to flood recovery in the Texas Hill Country to what turned out to be a fake outfit. There isn’t a dungeon deep enough for people that prey on others who are suffering.
But the hungry boys got their tampons.