Lead Federal Prosecutor in $250 Million Minnesota Fraud Case Resigns
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Joe Thompson, the federal prosecutor who played a pivotal role in exposing a sprawling $250 million fraud scheme in Minnesota, has resigned from his position at the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Thompson, 47, was appointed acting U.S. Attorney for Minnesota by President Donald Trump in May 2025 and led the office through one of the state’s most significant fraud investigations in recent history.
The investigation, known as the Feeding Our Future fraud case, uncovered widespread misuse of funds intended for child nutrition programs, shaking public confidence and prompting calls for greater oversight. Thompson’s leadership in the probe brought national attention to the case, which involved complex financial crimes affecting vulnerable communities.
Thompson served as acting U.S. Attorney until October 2025, when Daniel Rosen was confirmed as the permanent U.S. Attorney for Minnesota. In a brief email obtained by the Minnesota Star Tribune, Thompson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve but did not disclose his reasons for stepping down or his future plans.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent the United States and this office,” Thompson wrote.
The Feeding Our Future investigation was a key priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and involved coordination with multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Minneapolis Field Office. The probe revealed fraudulent claims and financial schemes that diverted millions of dollars from programs designed to support children’s nutrition across Minnesota.
Thompson’s resignation comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the state’s handling of the scandal. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has faced criticism over the administration’s response, with some lawmakers calling for increased accountability. The Minnesota Senate Minority Leader recently highlighted concerns about transparency and leadership following the revelations.
Federal prosecutors like Thompson often work closely with agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement when tackling complex fraud cases that cross jurisdictional lines. Their efforts are critical in protecting public funds and ensuring that government programs serve their intended beneficiaries.
As Thompson departs, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota continues to investigate related cases and uphold the integrity of federal programs. Daniel Rosen, who succeeded Thompson, is expected to maintain the office’s focus on combating fraud and safeguarding taxpayer resources.
The Feeding Our Future case remains a stark reminder of the challenges in monitoring large-scale public assistance programs and the importance of vigilant federal oversight. Thompson’s tenure, though brief, left a significant mark on the Minnesota legal landscape and the fight against financial crime.
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