Story perspectives

U.S. Prosecutors Resign Amid $9 Billion Fraud Crisis

2/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Minnesota faces resignations, including Joe Thompson, lead prosecutor.
The Department of Justice presses to investigate the widow of Renee Good, shot by an ICE agent.
The office, already handling Feeding Our Future fraud, now lacks staff to pursue roughly $9 billion since 2018.
Military attorneys will assist in prosecutions starting in March, and the Department of Justice remains committed to fighting fraud.

History

Historical Context

The turmoil within the U.S. Attorney's Office for Minnesota in 2022, marked by resignations including lead prosecutor Joe Thompson, reflects ongoing challenges in federal oversight. Since 2018, over $9 billion in fraud cases have been reported, echoing the systemic issues exposed during the 2008 financial crisis. This highlights a persistent commitment to combat fraud and restore public trust in federal agencies.

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Story summary

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Minnesota faces resignations, including Joe Thompson, lead prosecutor.
The Department of Justice presses to investigate the widow of Renee Good, shot by an ICE agent.
The office, already handling Feeding Our Future fraud, now lacks staff to pursue roughly $9 billion since 2018.
Military attorneys will assist in prosecutions starting in March, and the Department of Justice remains committed to fighting fraud.

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