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Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Monday that federal authorities uncovered what he described as the largest autism-related fraud scheme in U.S. history, involving the misuse of public funds intended to support children with autism in Minnesota.
Kennedy said investigators found widespread abuse within the state’s Early Intervention Development Program, which provides services and support for children diagnosed with autism and other developmental conditions.
According to Kennedy, the program’s costs increased dramatically in recent years, rising from $38.1 million in 2020 to $442 million in 2026. He alleged that much of the increase resulted from organized fraud schemes targeting taxpayer-funded assistance programs.
“Today’s arrests represent the largest autism fraud bust in American history,” Kennedy said in a statement.
“This was an organized theft that exploited the most vulnerable, deceived families, stole taxpayer dollars meant to help children with autism access legitimate care and support. Investigators uncovered brazen schemes that billed taxpayers for nonexistent services, fraudulent diagnoses, and fake care while criminals enriched themselves at public expense,” he added.
Federal officials did not immediately release the total number of arrests or identify all defendants connected to the investigation.
The announcement comes as the Trump administration continues a broader push to investigate fraud involving federally funded aid programs. Minnesota has faced increased scrutiny in recent months following allegations of widespread abuse tied to publicly funded social service programs.
Independent journalist Nick Shirley previously reported on alleged fraud involving daycare providers in Minneapolis who were receiving significant taxpayer funding. Those reports drew national attention and prompted additional federal review of state and local expenditures.
The investigation also unfolded alongside expanded federal immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota, where federal officials have said they are reviewing financial oversight and compliance involving several state-supported programs.
Kennedy said the administration plans to continue investigating fraud involving programs intended to serve vulnerable Americans.
“We will not allow criminals to profit off children in need or steal money intended for legitimate care,” he said.