7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial
Time:2024-05-21 07:01:41 Source:travelViews(143)
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.
Previous:Nadal returns to Roland Garros to practice amid doubts over fitness and form
Next:Uber and Lyft say they'll stay in Minnesota after Legislature passes driver pay compromise
You may also like
- Elon Musk gets approval from FDA to implant his Neuralink brain chip into a second patient
- China renews blue alert for sandstorms
- Bernabeu balancing act for Valverde with Copa del Rey final ahead
- Attack on a police checkpoint in Russia's North Caucasus leaves 2 police, 5 gunmen dead
- Saudi Arabia is going to sponsor the WTA women's tennis rankings under a new partnership
- Scenery of Shigu Town, located by huge bend of Jinsha River in SW China
- Rebel Wilson posts rare photo of mother Sue Bownds and reveals her unique career
- China to unveil major sci
- Who is Jacob Zuma, the former South African president disqualified from next week's election?