FBI Offers $150,000 Reward for Somali-American Man Wanted in Multimillion-Dollar COVID Fraud Case

Washington (WDN)- U.S. authorities allege that Fahad Mohamed Noor participated in a scheme to defraud federal programs established to provide meals to children during the COVID-19 pandemic. The programs were created as part of the U.S. government’s emergency response to the pandemic and distributed substantial amounts of federal money through organizations responsible for providing food to children and families.

According to the allegations, a food-supply company associated with Noor received more than $5 million in federal funds. Investigators contend that false invoices, financial records and meal-delivery claims were submitted to make it appear that large quantities of food had been purchased and distributed to children when, in some cases, the meals allegedly had never been provided.

The alleged conduct forms part of a much broader investigation into fraud involving COVID-era federal assistance programs in the United States. Prosecutors have pursued numerous individuals and organizations accused of exploiting emergency funding intended for vulnerable communities during the pandemic.

The allegations against Noor reportedly include wire fraud and money laundering. These are serious federal offenses, but it is important to distinguish an allegation or criminal charge from a finding of guilt. The government must prove the charges in court, and Noor remains legally presumed innocent unless and until a court determines otherwise.