The most shocking aspect wasn’t just the massive amount stolen — it was that the money was intended to help children with autism, yet prosecutors say much of the care was never provided.

$21 Million Autism Fraud Scheme

Federal authorities have charged two Minnesota women in what officials describe as one of the largest autism-related Medicaid fraud cases in the state’s history.

Shamso Ahmed Hassan, 55, and Hanaan Mursal Yusuf, 25, both of Brooklyn Park, are accused of defrauding Minnesota’s Medicaid program through two autism therapy centers: Smart Therapy Center LLC and Star Autism Center LLC.

Between May 2020 and December 2024, the pair allegedly submitted $46.6 million in false claims and received $21.1 million in taxpayer funds for Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) services that were either never provided or not medically necessary.

How the Alleged Scheme Worked

According to the federal indictment:

• They allegedly paid illegal kickbacks to parents ranging from $300 to $1,500 per month per child to enroll them in the programs.
• Children were reportedly diagnosed with autism regardless of actual need.
• The centers allegedly used unqualified staff to bill for services.
• Much of the fraudulent money was used to purchase property and wired overseas, including to Kenya.

Hassan has also been linked to the massive Feeding Our Future COVID-era fraud scandal, where she allegedly pocketed hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Latest Court Developments

Shamso Ahmed Hassan pleaded not guilty to charges of healthcare fraud and money laundering in federal court this week. Both women remain in custody.

This case is part of a broader federal takedown in Minnesota charging 15 defendants across multiple programs for defrauding taxpayers of more than $90 million.

The alleged fraud has sparked outrage, as funds meant to support vulnerable children with autism were allegedly diverted for personal gain while real services for families in need went unfunded.

Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the scheme.