Surge in federal officers in Minnesota focuses on alleged fraud at day care centers

Published: Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 4:10 pm

Federal Officers Deployed in Minnesota Amidst Day Care Fraud Allegations

MINNEAPOLIS – Federal law enforcement presence has increased in Minnesota following new allegations of fraud involving day care centers operated by Somali residents. The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI have announced expanded operations, prompted by claims of widespread fraud within childcare programs.

The move follows a video posted by a right-wing influencer alleging up to $100 million in fraudulent activity by Somali-run day care centers. State regulators are taking these allegations seriously. Federal officials have stated the intent is to dismantle large-scale fraud schemes exploiting federal programs.

Minnesota has previously faced scrutiny for fraud, including a significant $300 million pandemic-related fraud case involving the nonprofit Feeding Our Future. This case, considered the country's largest COVID-19-related fraud scam, involved defendants exploiting a state-run, federally funded program. In 2022, 47 people were charged, with the number of defendants growing to 78. So far, 57 individuals have been convicted.

Prosecutors estimate the total loss from all fraud cases could exceed $1 billion. A federal prosecutor has alleged that a significant portion of federal funds supporting various programs in Minnesota since 2018 may have been stolen.

The Trump administration's immigration enforcement in Minnesota has focused on the Somali community, which is the largest in the country. The majority of Somalis in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area are U.S. citizens.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has stated that fraud will not be tolerated and that his administration will continue to work with federal partners. The issue could be a major factor in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race.

BNN's Perspective:

While the allegations of fraud are concerning and warrant thorough investigation, it is crucial to avoid generalizations and ensure that any enforcement actions are targeted and proportionate. The focus should remain on holding individuals accountable for their actions, not on unfairly targeting an entire community. A balanced approach is needed to address the fraud while upholding the rights and dignity of all residents.

Keywords: Minnesota, fraud, day care centers, Somali, federal officers, Department of Homeland Security, FBI, Tim Walz, Ilhan Omar, COVID-19 fraud, Feeding Our Future, immigration, Minneapolis, St. Paul, government programs

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