DHS Agents Conduct Door-to-Door Visits in Minneapolis Amid Probe into Alleged Welfare Fraud

Minneapolis, MN — December 29, 2025

Federal agents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are actively conducting door-to-door visits at suspected fraud sites across Minneapolis as part of a sweeping investigation into alleged widespread abuse of taxpayer-funded programs, particularly childcare and healthcare assistance.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the DHS announced: "DHS is on the ground in Minneapolis, going DOOR TO DOOR at suspected fraud sites. The American people deserve answers on how their taxpayer money is being used and ARRESTS when abuse is found." The operation is being led under the direction of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, who echoed the sentiment, stating that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), a branch of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is carrying out a "massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud."

Videos shared by DHS and Secretary Noem show HSI agents, wearing "Police HSI" vests, questioning individuals at various businesses, including convenience stores and smokeshops in Minneapolis and nearby Burnsville. Agents were seen inquiring about operations, subcontractors, and child transportation services at facilities suspected of fraudulent claims.

The intensified federal action comes on the heels of a viral video posted by independent journalist Nick Shirley, which highlighted apparently inactive daycare centers that had received substantial state funding. This has reignited scrutiny over long-standing allegations of fraud in Minnesota's social aid programs, with estimates suggesting losses could reach hundreds of millions—or even billions—of dollars.

Background reports indicate that much of the suspected fraud involves "ghost daycares" and other entities allegedly submitting false claims for services not provided. Many sites under investigation are linked to Minnesota's Somali-American community, though officials emphasize the probe targets criminal activity regardless of background.

A senior DHS official described the effort as encompassing "a little of everything," including potential immigration-related violations alongside financial fraud. This follows earlier operations in the Twin Cities area, such as "Operation Metro Surge," which resulted in hundreds of arrests of individuals with criminal records or immigration violations.

Local and state responses have been mixed. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has previously ordered audits and paused payments to some programs while maintaining that fraud perpetrators should face justice. However, some community leaders have raised concerns about the focus on specific ethnic groups.

DHS officials have promised "more coming" as the investigation continues, with agents reportedly planning to visit over 30 sites in a single day. No arrests were immediately announced from Monday's visits, but the department stressed its commitment to accountability and recovering misused funds. 17GEN4.com