7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial
Time:2024-05-21 13:30:20 Source:entertainmentViews(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:Everybody may love Raymond, but Ray Romano loves Peter Boyle
Next:French sports minister calls for sanctions after Monaco player tapes over anti
You may also like
- Uber and Lyft say they'll stay in Minnesota after Legislature passes driver pay compromise
- Third CIIE to create new opportunities for common development
- Foldable phones surge in popularity amid stagnant market
- Chinese FM attends reception marking 60th anniversary of China
- Pentagon vows to keep weapons moving to Ukraine as Kyiv faces a renewed assault by Russia
- Xi Urges Guangxi to Write Its Chapter in Chinese Modernization
- Guiyang's autonomous vehicles reflects booming development in digital manufacturing sector
- Malta, Libya pledge to cooperate to save lives at sea
- Brazil replaces injured goalkeeper Ederson in Copa America squad