Recent charges revealed that 80 Somali Minnesotans were involved in a fraud scheme targeting a fund intended for feeding hungry children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors alleged that Somalians living in Minnesota stole hundreds of millions of dollars through the Feeding Our Future scam, with some also fraudulently obtaining funds via autism service centers.

Asha Farhan Hassan, 28, was charged with wire fraud for her role in a $14 million autism fraud scheme, having received $465,000. The U.S. Attorney’s office highlighted that the investigation into the EIDBI Autism Program is ongoing, noting that these schemes have stolen billions in taxpayer money.

The EIDBI program provides medically necessary services for individuals under 21 with autism spectrum disorder, including ABA therapy, which aims to improve social skills through positive reinforcement. To qualify for the benefit, individuals must be under 21, diagnosed with ASD or related conditions, and have a comprehensive evaluation leading to an individual treatment plan.

President Trump announced ending deportation protections for Somalis in Minnesota, citing “fraudulent money laundering activity” and claiming that “Somali gangs are terrorizing the people of that great State.” He stated the TPS Program for Somalis would no longer apply, urging them to return to their home country.

The fraud scheme follows allegations of funds being funneled to the Somali terror group Al-Shabaab, with the Manhattan Institute reporting similar findings.