Authorities in Minnesota have taken all seven defendants into custody as they investigate an attempted bribery incident in a high-profile fraud case. The defendants are accused of stealing over $40 million from a program designed to provide meals for children during the pandemic.
The case was brought to light when a 23-year-old juror reported being offered $120,000 in cash to acquit the defendants. The juror promptly informed the police, leading to her dismissal and replacement with an alternate. Another juror was later dismissed after mentioning the bribe to a family member.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Thompson condemned the attempted bribery as 'outrageous behavior' that is reminiscent of scenes from mob movies. Defense attorney Andrew Birrell expressed concern over the allegations, calling them 'troubling and upsetting.'
The ongoing investigation involves a total of 70 defendants, with 18 already pleading guilty. Authorities have recovered approximately $50 million in what is described as one of the largest pandemic-related fraud cases in the nation. Prosecutors allege that only a fraction of the misappropriated funds went towards feeding low-income children, with the rest being spent on luxury items.
The trial, which began in April, has raised questions about the FBI's investigation quality and whether the defendants were simply struggling to comply with rapidly changing program rules. The defendants, associated with a restaurant participating in the food aid program, maintain their innocence.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel has taken precautionary measures to ensure a fair trial, including sequestering the jury and confiscating the defendants' cellphones. The aid money in question was provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the state Department of Education, with allegations of fraudulent activities including money laundering and passport fraud.
