$250 Million Stolen: Minnesota’s Largest Pandemic Fraud Scheme Uncovered

A massive fraud scheme exploiting a federally funded children’s nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic has been uncovered in Minnesota, with 70 individuals indicted for their role in the scandal. According to FBI Director Kash Patel, this is “one of the worst” fraud schemes in Minnesota history, with conspirators falsely claiming to have served millions of meals to children and instead using the money for personal gain. The scheme involved fabricating invoices, submitting fake attendance records, and distributing thousands of meals from fake food distribution sites across the state.

The fraud scheme, known as “Feeding our Future,” exploited the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s decision to waive many of its standard requirements for participation in the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the pandemic. Roughly 300 “food sites” in the state served little or no food, with the so-called “food vendors” and organizations fabricated to launder money intended to reimburse the cost of feeding children. Of the 70 individuals indicted, 38 have pleaded guilty, and more than a dozen are awaiting trial. The next trial is scheduled to begin on August 11.

FBI officials say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are expected. The case has already led to legislative reform in Minnesota and has had a significant impact on the state. FBI Director Patel emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “Stealing over $250 million from hungry kids during a pandemic to fund mansions and luxury cars is as shameless as it gets.” The FBI’s special agent in charge, Alvin Winston, added that stealing from the federal government equates to stealing from the American people, and those responsible will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.