Feeding Our Future founder Aimee Bock found guilty in pandemic fraud trial

The recent verdict in the Feeding Our Future fraud case has brought justice to the forefront as the jury delivered guilty verdicts against Aimee Bock and Salim Said, accused of orchestrating the largest pandemic fraud scheme in the country. The pair were found guilty on multiple counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and federal programs bribery.

The prosecution detailed how Said, the owner of Safari Restaurant, and Bock collaborated to siphon off millions of dollars meant for feeding hungry children. Said allegedly falsified meal counts, rosters, and invoices, which Bock then submitted to the state department for funding. Assistant U.S. Attorney Harry Jacobs emphasized that the duo worked together at every stage of the scheme and reaped substantial financial gains from their fraudulent activities.

While Bock’s attorney maintained her innocence, claiming she was unaware of the fraud, Said’s lawyer argued that his legitimate business was corrupted by others. However, prosecutors pointed to Said’s extravagant spending on real estate and luxury items as evidence of his ill-gotten gains.

This case is part of a larger investigation that has ensnared 70 individuals, with roughly 30 already pleading guilty and five others convicted. In a shocking turn of events, a separate defendant attempted witness tampering by offering a juror a $120,000 bribe to secure favorable verdicts for the defendants. Ladan Ali, who flew in from Seattle, followed a juror home and handed over cash in exchange for acquittals.

The verdict in the Feeding Our Future case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of fraud and deception. With the guilty verdicts handed down, justice has been served, and those responsible for exploiting a program meant to help vulnerable children will face the consequences of their actions. As the legal process continues, the impact of this case will reverberate throughout the community, highlighting the importance of accountability and integrity in all dealings.