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 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:
Related suggestion:
Maggie Rogers on 'Don't Forget Me,' the album she wrote for a Sunday driveMoon landing attempt: Private US spacecraft enters orbitSolar eclipse sweeps across North America. The moment of totality, in photosFirst US moon lander in half a century stops working a week after tipping over at touchdownU.S. stocks soar above global markets, giving investors solid path for growthEating less meat would be good for the Earth. Small nudges can change behaviorThis simple log structure may be the oldest example of early humans building with woodO.J. Simpson still reflects America's racial divides— even in deathIf you're retired or about to retire, think carefully about your tax strategyBakery outlets close across New England and New York
2.4562s , 6516.046875 kb
Copyright © 2024 Powered by 7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial ,Planet Profile news portal