Share

cover art for Minnesota Fraud Scandal: $1B Stolen, 61 Convicted

Minneapolis News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Minnesota Fraud Scandal: $1B Stolen, 61 Convicted

Unveiling a Massive Fraud Scheme: Over One Billion Dollars Stolen from Childrens Meal Program in Minnesota This podcast episode delves into the shocking revelation of a colossal fraud scheme in Minnesota, initially estimated at $250 million but now surpassing $1 billion. The scheme involved a charity called Feeding Our Future, which allegedly stole federal funds intended for feeding children. Sixty-one people have been convicted so far. The fraud was first spotted by state officials in July 2019, months before the COVID-19 pandemic, but they faced pressure from Feeding Our Future leaders to stop investigating. The charity claimed to have served 91 million meals, but federal prosecutors say the money instead funded lavish lifestyles. The schemes began shortly after Governor Tim Walz took office in 2019, with state workers noticing inconsistencies in meal claims. However, their concerns were reportedly dismissed. The pandemic then allowed the fraud to accelerate rapidly, as safeguards were intentionally removed to ensure people in need received help. The scandal has drawn renewed attention, with critics suggesting the state was intimidated by Feeding Our Future, which tried to portray early scrutiny as racism. The mastermind of the fraud, Aimee Bock, plans to appeal her conviction, with her attorney denying she pressured state officials. Investigations are ongoing, with additional fraud cases involving housing assistance and behavioral health services also coming to light. The total number of people charged now exceeds 87, with 61 convictions. The total amount of stolen money now exceeds $1 billion, and authorities continue to pursue those responsible.

DNN | The Daily News Now!

The world’s first global local news network.

Every city. Every story. AI powered. 

More episodes

View all episodes

  • Tragic Shooting in Richfield: Woman Dies

    01:30|
    In Richfield, Minnesota, a young womans life was tragically cut short after a violent incident at the Fountainhead Apartments. Police discovered the victim in a vehicle, having sustained a gunshot wound. The driver was arrested at the scene, and the investigation is ongoing. The community mourns this senseless loss.
  • Curry's Triumphant Return, NBA History Made

    01:32|
    Steph Curry returned from injury, showcasing his signature moves and scoring 39 points against the Timberwolves. Despite the Warriors loss, Curry made NBA history with his 95th game of 35+ points since turning 30, surpassing Michael Jordans record. The Warriors record stands at 13-13, and Curry is set to play against the Trail Blazers this Sunday.
  • Extreme Cold Warning: Frostbite in Minutes

    01:38|
    Dangerously cold weather grips the Twin Cities this weekend, with wind chills reaching as low as minus forty degrees in northwestern Minnesota. Frostbite can occur in as little as ten to fifteen minutes at these extreme temperatures. The coldest day in the metro area since February seventeenth is expected, marking the earliest zero-or-lower high temperature since December twelfth, two thousand. Temperatures are forecast to rise into the upper twenties by Monday afternoon, bringing some much-needed sunshine.
  • Wild Acquires Quinn Hughes, Shakes NHL Landscape

    01:44|
    Minnesota Wild Acquires Quinn Hughes: A Bold Move to End Playoff Drought The Minnesota Wild made a significant move by acquiring star defenseman Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks. This trade, along with the Edmonton Oilers acquisition of Tristan Jarry, signals a busy period for player movements. The Wild sent three promising prospects to the Canucks, highlighting their long-term vision of immediate contention. The hockey world awaits Hughes integration into the lineup and the potential impact on the Wilds playoff drought.
  • Canucks Trade Captain Quinn Hughes to Wild

    01:45|
    The Vancouver Canucks were forced to trade their star defenseman, Quinn Hughes, to the Minnesota Wild due to his desire to leave. Despite efforts to convince him to stay, Hughes decision to depart led to a trade that significantly impacts the Canucks plans, as they now face the challenge of moving forward without their captain and top defenseman.
  • Canucks Trade Quinn Hughes to Wild

    01:58|
    Quinn Hughes, Vancouver Canucks captain, traded to Minnesota Wild; Canucks receive young players and draft pick in return; Hughes, a James Norris Memorial Trophy winner, joins Wild amidst speculation and fan backlash.
  • Harney's Journey: All-Star Game & Minnesota's Talent Pool

    01:44|
    Kaden Harney, a standout quarterback from Maple Grove, is gearing up for an all-star game, embracing the challenge of learning a new playbook and working with different coaches and teammates. Hes the only senior quarterback in Minnesotas current class heading to Division One college football, highlighting an underrated talent pool in the state. Harney led Maple Grove to a twenty-three-game winning streak, including a state championship, but ended his high school career with an unexpected loss. Hes now focused on ending his career on a high note with a win in the all-star game, grateful for all the experiences that have shaped his journey.
  • Quinn Hughes Traded to Wild, Brother Luke to Face Former Team

    01:46|
    Quinn Hughes, a star defenseman, was traded from the Vancouver Canucks to the Minnesota Wild, marking a significant move in the NHL. The Canucks received center Marco Rossi, defenseman Zeev Buium, forward Liam Ohgren, and a first-round draft pick in 2026. The Devils were also in the running for Hughes, but the Canucks chose Minnesotas offer. Hughes, a two-time Norris Trophy finalist, will debut with the Wild this Sunday against the Bruins, while his brother Luke faces his former team, the Canucks.
  • Minnesota Immigration Arrests: Concerns and Controversies

    02:11|
    Metro Surge operation by DHS in Minnesota results in 142 arrests, with 51 from Mexico, 14 from Somalia, and 7 from El Salvador. Secretary Noem reports 4,300 removals, 3,306 with criminal histories, and 98 linked to foreign terrorist organizations. However, concerns arise over unlawful ICE activity, including detention of US citizens, and aggressive tactics leading to detainee transfers out of state.