Feeding Our Future: Defendant pleads not guilty, faces trial

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – A Columbia Heights man allegedly involved in one of the largest COVID-19 fraud schemes that stole at least $250 million from a federal child nutrition program designed to feed children has pleaded not guilty and will go to trial in 2025.

What we know

In September 2022, authorities filed charges against 47 people in connection with the Feeding Our Future program, including founder Aimee Bock.

Abdullahe Nur Jesow, 62, of Columbia Heights, was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering.

Jesow ran a website called “Academy for Youth Excellence,” which used S&S Catering as a supplier, and is accused of stealing $6 million as part of the scam.

Next Steps

According to court documents, Jesow rejected a plea offer on record.

Jesow was released on bail and must remain under the supervision of the U.S. Parole and Detention Administration.

A total of 60 people have now been charged with several counts, including conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering and bribery.

The trials are expected to continue in 2024 and 2025.