Investigation of Autism Center Linked to MN Senate Candidate Raises Criticism

<p>An autism center operated by Nimco Ahmed, a longtime friend of Minnesota Democratic Senate candidate Peggy Flanagan, is under investigation for fraud. Ahmed was present with Flanagan in a viral video where she defended the Somali community. The investigation involves both the Milestone Development Center and the Spectrum Therapy Center, as confirmed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).</p><p>The DHS stated, "These agencies are on our radar." They have open investigations into both centers and noted that both agencies were terminated from participating in the Medicaid program as part of Minnesota Revalidate 2026, a process to verify compliance with state and federal regulations. Both providers have appealed their termination.</p><p>Ahmed, identified as the CEO of Milestone, gained attention for her appearance in a video on Somali TV, where Flanagan stated, "The Somali community is part of the fabric of the state of Minnesota." Ahmed has been involved with the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) for nearly 25 years.</p><p>Criticism of Flanagan has emerged on social media following the news of the investigation. Flanagan has served as the state's lieutenant governor since 2019 and has faced questions regarding her response to the ongoing fraud issues.</p><p>Former Milestone therapist Grant Morgan claimed that he did not observe qualified oversight during his employment and noted potential billing fraud red flags. He reported that many practitioners seemed unqualified and that the center did not provide comprehensive autism services.</p><p>In response to the allegations, Ahmed stated that inquiries about her center's care were biased and attributed the scrutiny to her Somali background. She denied claims of inadequate oversight and asserted that the center complies with state requirements and undergoes regular audits.</p>