FBI indicts 70 in Minnesota’s $250M COVID child nutrition scam, with dozens convicted and more trials ahead.

Massive Fraud Exploited Children’s Nutrition Program During Pandemic

The FBI has brought to light a sweeping $250 million fraud scheme in Minnesota, targeting a federally funded children’s nutrition program established to provide meals during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to FBI Director Kash Patel, 70 individuals have been indicted for their roles in the “Feeding our Future” scheme, which the bureau described as one of the worst frauds in state history.

The scam centered on fraudulent claims for millions of meals never served to children in need. Conspirators fabricated invoices, falsified attendance records, and set up hundreds of so-called food distribution sites across Minnesota, many of which served little or no food. The funds, meant to reimburse meal providers, were instead diverted to personal luxuries—mansions, high-end cars, and extravagant lifestyles.

“Stealing over $250 million from hungry kids during a pandemic to fund mansions and luxury cars is as shameless as it gets,” said FBI Director Patel. “I’m proud of the FBI and our partners for dismantling this web of corruption, holding dozens accountable, and sending a clear message: if you exploit the most vulnerable, we will find you and bring you to justice.”

Convictions Mount, Further Trials and Charges Expected

So far, 38 of those indicted have pleaded guilty, with more than a dozen others awaiting criminal trial. The next trial is scheduled for August 11. The fraud exploited relaxed federal rules that allowed non-school-based distributors to participate in the Federal Child Nutrition Program, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture suspended many standard requirements during the pandemic.

Charging documents detail that roughly 300 “food sites” were involved, with organizations and vendors allegedly fabricated to launder money instead of distributing meals. FBI officials noted that the investigation is ongoing and that additional charges are expected as they work to fully dismantle the network behind the scheme.

The investigation has also triggered legislative reform in Minnesota, as lawmakers seek to prevent future abuse of public programs intended to support vulnerable children and families during crises.

Alvin Winston, the FBI’s special agent in charge, emphasized the profound betrayal of public trust: “These individuals misappropriated hundreds of millions in federal funds intended to nourish vulnerable children during a time of crisis, redirecting those resources into luxury homes, high-end vehicles, and extravagant lifestyles while families faced hardship.”

“We will uncover their schemes, dismantle their networks, and ensure that they are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Winston said, underlining the bureau’s commitment to protecting public funds and serving justice.

As the investigation continues, the case stands as a stark warning against abusing emergency aid, reinforcing the need for oversight and accountability in federally funded programs—especially those meant to serve the most vulnerable.