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:
Traditional Ethnic Culture Emphasized on Campus in S China's GuangxiSouthwest University to Conduct Study to Assist Children's Development in Remote AreasPupils Participate in Scientific Education Tour at Henan Natural History MuseumThe Way Together: Unlock the Power of SHE with #BeltandRoadChina, Australia to jointly promote stable development of strategic partnershipKey Meeting Outlines China's Tasks for 2024 Rural DevelopmentHousing Project Improves Grassland Life at Winter Pastures in XizangChinese Armed Forces Deploy Multiple Rescue Forces in Response to Gansu EarthquakeGuest Countries of Honor Attract Visitors at 6th CIIEThe Way Together: Unlock the Power of SHE with #BeltandRoad
2.8215s , 6497.7265625 kb
Copyright © 2024 Powered by 7 Minnesotans accused in massive scheme to defraud pandemic food program to stand trial ,Earthly Exploits news portal