At a Glance
- Minnesota child-care centers cleared after viral fraud claims
- Nine centers tied to the viral clip received $17.4 million in 2025 CCAP funding
- A $250 million federal fraud scheme tied to Feeding Our Future has led to 78 charges and ongoing investigations
- Why it matters: The state’s child-care system and federal fraud investigations are under intense scrutiny, affecting families, providers, and the community’s reputation.
A viral video by influencer Nick Shirley sparked claims of widespread fraud in Minnesota’s child-care facilities, prompting state and federal investigations that are now unfolding across multiple fronts.
State Department Response
The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families issued a statement Friday after requests for information about the Child Care Assistance Program. Investigators from its Office of Inspector General conducted compliance checks at nine centers referenced in the viral video.
- All nine sites were operating as expected.
- Children were present at all sites except one, which was not yet open for families that day.
- Investigators gathered evidence and initiated further review.
- Ongoing investigations involve four centers and 55 investigations into providers receiving CCAP funding.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to fact-based reviews that stop fraud.
**Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families stated:
> “We remain committed to fact-based reviews that stop fraud.”
Federal Investigations and Fraud Scheme
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has been probing fraud in Minnesota for several years. A $250 million scheme involving Feeding Our Future began in 2022 and has resulted in 78 criminal charges. The mastermind, Aimee Bock, was convicted with Salim Said in March on wire fraud and related counts.
- The scheme used federal COVID-19 relief funds intended for meals for children.
- The funds were diverted to fund lavish lifestyles.
- The federal prosecutor’s office calls it the largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the country.
- A 2024 state audit found the Minnesota Department of Education did not properly oversee Feeding Our Future.
Political Reactions
President Donald Trump criticized the Somali community on Truth Social, claiming:
> “Much of the Minnesota Fraud, up to 90%, is caused by people that came into our Country, illegally, from Somalia.”
He also attacked Ilhan Omar, calling her a “loser” and urging:
> “Send them back from where they came, Somalia, perhaps the worst, and most corrupt, country on earth.”
FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau had “surged” investigative resources and personnel to Minnesota before Shirley’s video went viral.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated:
> “We have surged investigative resources and personnel to Minnesota in response to the allegations.”
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota child-care centers tied to the viral video are operating as expected.
- Federal investigations have uncovered a $250 million COVID-19 fraud scheme with 78 charges.
- Political rhetoric has intensified scrutiny of Minnesota’s Somali community.
The ongoing investigations and federal actions underscore the seriousness of fraud allegations and the importance of transparent oversight in child-care and public-fund programs.
