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:
'Liusanjie of New Generation' Sings for New EraBeijing launches competition to preserve Central AxisACWF, CMWA Express Regards to Women Medical Workers Fighting Against NCPACWF Adds New Group MemberEnchanting Sydney's streets with Chinese musicACWF President Stresses the Role of Women, Women's Federations in COVIDJapan's Sapporo confirms abandoning bid for 2030 Winter OlympicsACWF Calls on Women to Learn from Women Role Models in AntiACWF Calls on Women to Learn from Women Role Models in AntiDelegations parade into stadium during opening ceremony of 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou
3.0292s , 6499.2265625 kb
Copyright © 2024 Powered by 7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial ,Stellar Stories news portal