Friday, December 19th — Explosive new indictments shine a harsh spotlight on Minnesota’s fraud crisis, as federal prosecutors reveal eye-popping numbers tied to social services programs and warn that as much as half or more of $18 billion billed since 2018 may have been stolen. We break down the latest charges, new federal raids, and how investigators describe so-called “fraud tourists” targeting Minnesota.
We also remember a retired Twin Cities police officer killed while stopping to help a stranded driver on an icy road, as holiday travel officially lifts off at MSP with nearly 1.8 million travelers expected in the coming weeks. And a powerful night of healing at the Annunciation Catholic School Christmas concert, where students used music to honor two classmates they lost this year, Harper and Fletcher.
Plus: new charges after school threat investigations in Dakota County, an update on respiratory illness outbreaks, a Minneapolis homeless memorial amid a mayoral veto, national crime and court developments, Minnesota sports headlines, and the Ice Castles are returning earlier this year.
Join Maria Lisignoli for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices