Aimee Bock, the head of the Minnesota nonprofit Feeding Our Future, has publicly claimed that both Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison were aware of a massive fraud scheme involving approximately $250 million in federal pandemic relief funds. This assertion follows her conviction for her role in the scheme, which is being described as the largest pandemic relief fraud in U.S. history.
Prosecutors allege that Bock’s organization fraudulently signed off on claims for around 125 million nonexistent meals intended to feed underprivileged children across Minnesota. Reports indicate that only 3% of the funds were actually used for their intended purpose. Bock faces significant legal consequences, including a potential sentence of up to 33 years in prison.
Background of the Fraud Case
Feeding Our Future served as a “sponsoring organization,” responsible for approving meal sites and distributing reimbursements to various food sites, many operated by individuals within the Somali community. According to prosecutors, these sites submitted fraudulent claims in exchange for kickbacks paid to Bock and her staff. To date, 98 individuals have been charged in connection with the fraud, with over 64 having pleaded guilty or been convicted.
In a series of jailhouse interviews, Bock has maintained her innocence, expressing regret over the situation. She claimed to have taken measures to stop fraudulent activities within her organization, stating, “I was the only one that stopped a claim and said, this is fraudulent.” Despite her assertions, the evidence against her has been substantial, leading her to face intense scrutiny.
Allegations Against State Officials
Bock’s claims extend to Minnesota officials, including Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison, whom she alleges must have been aware of the fraudulent activities. She stated, “We relied on the state,” referring to the approval process for meal sites that state officials oversaw. Bock’s accusations suggest a systemic failure within state oversight that allowed the fraud to continue unchecked.
During her interview with CBS News, Bock highlighted that local leaders, including Representative Ilhan Omar, frequently visited these meal sites, implying that officials should have been alerted to the irregularities. She expressed disbelief that neither Walz nor Ellison acted on potential signals of fraud, stating, “I honestly believe Keith Ellison and Gov. Walz need to be held accountable.” Bock’s statements have prompted calls for further investigation into state officials’ involvement.
Ellison’s office has responded to Bock’s allegations by questioning her credibility. A spokesperson characterized her as “a liar, fraudster, and manipulator of the highest order,” asserting that she has consistently evaded responsibility for her actions. The spokesperson emphasized that federal and state investigators thoroughly examined the fraud, holding Bock accountable for her own conduct.
According to James Comer, a Republican member of the House Oversight Committee, the Department of Justice has issued over 1,750 subpoenas and conducted more than 1,000 interviews as part of a sweeping federal investigation. Comer stated that the total losses from various fraud schemes in Minnesota could exceed $9 billion, warning that the current investigation may only scratch the surface of the issue.
As Bock prepares for sentencing, her claims continue to attract media attention, sparking debates about accountability and oversight in state government. The fallout from this scandal underscores the challenges of managing large-scale federal relief efforts and the potential for abuse within such systems.
