Here’s a summary of the article regarding fraudulent applications for a small business recovery grant fund in Hennepin County:
Hennepin County staff discovered potential fraudulent applications for a small business recovery grant fund and requested an investigation from the sheriff’s office in June. By mid-September, the necessary documents for the investigation had not yet been shared. Hennepin County officials indicated they are still gathering data, which they plan to send to law enforcement soon.
While no taxpayer money was dispersed to the alleged fraudsters, County Commissioner Jeffrey Lunde emphasized the need for penalties. The fraudulent applications were identified through a collaboration between county staff and a nonprofit, uncovering cases where fake businesses were used or real businesses reported they had not applied at all.
Potential criminal charges might include fraud, forgery, or identity theft.
