Photo Credit: YouTube / WCCO
(MINNEAPOLIS, MN.) - The Minnesota House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform’s 205-page report alleges that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Keith Ellison failed to act on warnings regarding a federally funded social program fraud since 2019. Accusations include claims that state officials had the power to stop payments and remove fraudulent providers, leading to approximately $9,300.000,000 in meal program and Medicaid fraud.
The extensive report also alleges that anyone who reported concerns about the fraud was intimidated or subject to retaliation. Walz wanted fraud proven before stopping payments, and Ellison said his office had no authority to stop payments for the program.
Walz’s office inferred that the Committee is politically motivated, and stated fraud culprits are facing prosecution for wrongdoing. He may be referring to the main perpetrator, former Founder and Executive Director of Feeding Our Future Aimee Bock, who was sentenced to 41 years in prison for her role in the fraud.
Bock was tried alongside her partner Salim Said. Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the National Fraud Enforcement Division was allegedly disgusted by the actions of Bock and Said, who used taxpayer funds intended to feed vulnerable children. The two spent the money on luxury vehicles, international travel, and Minnesota commercial real estate.
Photo Credit: YouTube / KARE 11 Aimee Bock Before Trial
Ellison’s office alleges the report contains misinformation and inaccuracies, arguing his office has limited authority over many social-service programs and has no ability to make state agencies stop payments or any way to oversee agency operations.
Regardless of any political motive behind the report or arguments from Walz and Ellison, the funds were stolen, and McDonald was clear that “Minnesota fraudsters should be on high alert – justice is on the move.”
To add to or correct any information in this report, please contact me at kristin.h@lead4earth.org.
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