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:
China's green loans see recordNetanyahu uses Holocaust ceremony to brush off international pressure against Gaza offensiveNo, France did not deploy troops to fight with Ukraine against RussiaEdward Olivares' grand slam and Mitch Keller's complete game lead Pirates over Angels 4Donald Trump calls Joe Biden weak on antisemitism, ignoring his own rhetoricVirtual humans helping spur eChina extends more inclusive loans to small businesses76ers president Daryl Morey has big plans to build NBA title team around Embiid and MaxeyWinnipeg Jets coach Rick Bowness is retiring after 38 NHL seasonsBank holiday booze
1.7267s , 5260.5546875 kb
Copyright © 2024 Powered by 7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial ,International Imagery news portal