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
Who is Jacob Zuma, the former South African president disqualified from next week's election?
JOHANNESBURG (AP) — Former South African President Jacob Zuma was barred Monday from running for Par2024-05-21Crowding recurs at the Universal Beijing Resort
After China's refining of its COVID-19 response, Beijing has become one of the first cities to h2024-05-21Macao announces schedule for election of Chief Executive Election Committee
The Electoral Affairs Commission for the Chief Executive Election of China's Macao Special Admin2024-05-21Beijing water town to roll out immersive autumn experience
Beijing Water town will launch a series of "autumn fun programs" to help visitors savor th2024-05-21Minnesota Uber and Lyft driver pay package beats deadline to win approval in Legislature
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — A plan to boost pay for Uber and Lyft drivers in Minnesota that lawmakers bel2024-05-21Robin Goodfellow's racing tips: Best bets for Friday, April 26
Mail Sport's racing expert Robin Goodfellow delivers his tips for Friday's meetings at Doncaster, Ch2024-05-21
atest comment