CRIME & LAW

Federal agents execute search warrants in Minnesota fraud probe

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Minneapolis — Federal agents executed multiple search warrants on Tuesday in an ongoing fraud investigation by the Trump administration into publicly funded social programs for children, seizing records and other evidence at daycares, businesses and some residences, authorities said; armed agents were reported at childcare centers and one crew was shown using a battering ram. Gov. Tim Walz welcomed the raids this week, and state child welfare officials said they shared information with federal investigators; the searches follow months of scrutiny, including a right-wing influencer's video and prior prosecutions that led to at least 65 convictions, and a December federal estimate that up to $9 billion in funds may have been stolen.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Multi-year investigations and prosecutions into program fraud produced at least 65 convictions.
The probe continued into the Biden administration with expanded federal review.
Months earlier a right-wing influencer posted a video alleging fake childcare centers.
In December a federal prosecutor estimated up to $9 billion in possibly stolen funds.
On Tuesday federal agents executed multiple search warrants, seizing records at daycares, businesses and residences.

Why This Matters to You

This fraud probe affects your money. Publicly funded programs use taxpayer dollars. If there's fraud, it means your money isn't going to help kids as intended. You can check if your local daycare is licensed and report any suspicions to authorities.

The Bottom Line

A massive fraud investigation is underway. It's believed up to $9 billion may have been stolen from children's programs. This is a serious crime that hurts kids and taxpayers. Worth forwarding if you know someone who cares about where their tax dollars go.