403
Sorry!!
Error! We're sorry, but the page you were looking for doesn't exist.
Federal Agents Launch Fraud Probe in Minnesota Childcare Centers
(MENAFN) US authorities have initiated a broad investigation in Minneapolis, Minnesota, after a viral video suggested a large-scale fraud involving Somali-operated childcare facilities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the operation on Monday, noting that the probe was triggered by allegations of misuse of taxpayer funds.
The inquiry stems from a video posted by YouTuber Nick Shirley, who visited sites such as the Quality Learing Center – recognizable for its misspelled sign.
He highlighted tinted windows, empty parking lots, and the absence of children, claiming that these centers had received millions of dollars for services that did not exist. Shirley asserted that his team uncovered more than $110 million in fraudulent activity in a single day.
The footage quickly drew the attention of US Vice President J.D. Vance and billionaire Elon Musk.
In reaction, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced a “massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud,” sharing clips of agents questioning business operators. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that resources had been “surged” into Minnesota, cautioning that these cases represented only “the tip of a very large iceberg.” He warned that those found guilty could face “denaturalization and deportation.”
A federal prosecutor estimated that as much as half of the $18 billion in federal funding allocated to Minnesota since 2018 may have been misappropriated. Officials noted that many defendants in recent years have been of Somali origin, including those charged in the ‘Feeding Our Future’ scandal, where $250 million was allegedly stolen through a COVID-19 food aid scheme.
The inquiry stems from a video posted by YouTuber Nick Shirley, who visited sites such as the Quality Learing Center – recognizable for its misspelled sign.
He highlighted tinted windows, empty parking lots, and the absence of children, claiming that these centers had received millions of dollars for services that did not exist. Shirley asserted that his team uncovered more than $110 million in fraudulent activity in a single day.
The footage quickly drew the attention of US Vice President J.D. Vance and billionaire Elon Musk.
In reaction, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced a “massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud,” sharing clips of agents questioning business operators. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that resources had been “surged” into Minnesota, cautioning that these cases represented only “the tip of a very large iceberg.” He warned that those found guilty could face “denaturalization and deportation.”
A federal prosecutor estimated that as much as half of the $18 billion in federal funding allocated to Minnesota since 2018 may have been misappropriated. Officials noted that many defendants in recent years have been of Somali origin, including those charged in the ‘Feeding Our Future’ scandal, where $250 million was allegedly stolen through a COVID-19 food aid scheme.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Most popular stories
Market Research
Comments
No comment