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 ALLEGED PLOTThe 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. |
Beijing confirms recovering tourism during New Year holidayEurope, China could be partners for boosting electrification in auto industryTeens plotted to buy guns and attack Jewish people after Sydney bishop was stabbed, police allegeBrunei welcomes 1st Chinese tourist group in 3 yearsChina unveils ShenzhouChina strives to secure water supply in droughtDigital Silk Road development enables connectivity, prosperityChina's ecological environment improves steadily in Q1Bernabeu balancing act for Valverde with Copa del Rey final aheadMessi scores in return as Miami held by Colorado