22 Search Warrants Executed Across Twin Cities: Full Breakdown & Latest Updates

Federal Raids Target Fraud in Minnesota’s Medicaid-Funded Programs

MINNEAPOLIS — Federal agents, backed by state and local law enforcement, executed 22 search warrants across the Twin Cities metro area on Tuesday as part of a sweeping investigation into alleged fraud involving Medicaid funding. The operation, described by officials as a major escalation in a long-running probe, targeted businesses that receive federal healthcare dollars, including childcare facilities and autism service providers.

A Justice Department spokesperson confirmed that the raids were part of an “ongoing fraud investigation” and involved the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). Even as no arrests were announced during the raids, the scale of the operation—spanning multiple businesses and agencies—signals a significant crackdown on what authorities describe as the misuse of public funds.

“Today the FBI, with federal, state, and local law enforcement, is involved in court-authorized law enforcement activity as part of an ongoing fraud investigation,” the Justice Department said in a statement. The spokesperson emphasized that the operation was not related to immigration enforcement, addressing concerns raised in local communities.

Targets Include Childcare and Autism Service Providers

According to law enforcement sources cited by CNN affiliate KARE, most of the locations raided were businesses that receive Medicaid funding, including childcare facilities. Five of the targeted facilities are connected to Minnesota’s Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Waiver Program, a state initiative designed to provide therapeutic services to children with autism. The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office confirmed that its Medicaid Fraud Control Unit assisted in the operation at those sites.

The raids come amid persistent allegations that some Minnesota businesses, particularly those run by members of the Somali community, have fraudulently used federal funding. These accusations were the focus of a contentious congressional hearing last month, where lawmakers questioned the oversight of Medicaid-funded programs in the state. While no specific allegations have been publicly confirmed, the investigation has drawn scrutiny from federal and state officials alike.

Governor Walz’s Political Fallout

The scandal has already had political repercussions. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, announced his withdrawal from the 2026 gubernatorial race last week, citing the need to focus on addressing the fraud allegations. Walz, who has served as governor since 2019, had been considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, but his administration has faced criticism over its handling of Medicaid oversight.

“The integrity of our state’s programs is paramount,” Walz said in a statement. “While I believe in the work we’ve done to expand access to care, we must ensure that every dollar is spent as intended.” His decision to step aside has left the race for Minnesota’s top office wide open, with both parties seeking to capitalize on the fallout from the investigation.

What Happens Next?

The raids mark a highly visible phase in what has been described as a “long-running” investigation. While federal agencies have not released details about the specific allegations, the operation suggests that authorities have gathered sufficient evidence to justify the execution of search warrants. The involvement of HSI, a unit within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), indicates that the probe may involve financial crimes with potential cross-border implications, though officials have stressed that the raids were not related to immigration enforcement.

Local media footage from the scene showed agents leaving several childcare centers and autism service providers, but no individuals were seen in custody. Federal agencies have declined to comment further, citing operational security and the safety of their agents. The Minnesota BCA confirmed its participation in the raids but did not disclose the names or locations of the businesses involved.

For families and patients who rely on these services, the raids have raised concerns about disruptions to care. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has issued a statement assuring the public that It’s working to ensure continuity of services for affected children and families. “We understand that this is a challenging time for families who depend on these programs,” the DHS said. “Our priority is to minimize disruption and connect them with alternative providers if necessary.”

Broader Context: Medicaid Fraud in the U.S.

Medicaid fraud is a persistent issue in the United States, costing taxpayers billions of dollars annually. According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General, improper payments in Medicaid totaled $98.7 billion in fiscal year 2023 alone. Common forms of fraud include billing for services not rendered, upcoding (billing for more expensive services than those provided), and kickbacks to providers.

Minnesota has been particularly scrutinized in recent years for its handling of Medicaid-funded programs. A 2024 report by the state’s Legislative Auditor found that oversight of autism service providers was inadequate, with some agencies failing to properly document services or verify provider qualifications. The report recommended stronger monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, many of which have since been implemented.

Key Takeaways

• Scope of the Raids: Federal agents executed 22 search warrants across the Twin Cities, targeting businesses that receive Medicaid funding, including childcare facilities and autism service providers.
• Agencies Involved: The operation included the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), and the state’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.
• Political Impact: Governor Tim Walz withdrew from the 2026 gubernatorial race amid fallout from the investigation, citing the need to address the allegations.
• No Arrests Yet: While no arrests were announced during the raids, the scale of the operation suggests that authorities have gathered significant evidence.
• Community Concerns: Families relying on affected services have been assured by the state that efforts are underway to minimize disruptions to care.

What’s Next?

Federal and state officials have not provided a timeline for the next steps in the investigation. However, legal experts anticipate that the execution of search warrants could lead to the seizure of documents, financial records, and electronic devices, which may take months to analyze. If charges are filed, they could include wire fraud, healthcare fraud, and conspiracy, among other offenses.

The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office has urged the public to report any suspected fraud through its Medicaid Fraud Hotline. Meanwhile, the DHS continues to monitor the situation and provide updates to affected families.

As the investigation unfolds, it is likely to spark broader conversations about Medicaid oversight, both in Minnesota and nationwide. For now, the focus remains on ensuring that the integrity of public programs is upheld and that those who rely on them are not left without critical services.

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