A center for autism treatment led by Nimco Ahmed, a close associate of Minnesota Democratic Senate candidate Peggy Flanagan, is under investigation for fraud. The center, Milestone Development Center, is being scrutinized alongside Spectrum Therapy Center, as reported by Alpha News. The Minnesota Department of Human Services confirmed these investigations to Fox News Digital, stating that both agencies are being monitored.
The agencies involved are under active investigation, and details cannot be disclosed due to legal restrictions, according to a DHS spokesperson. However, it is known that both centers were removed from the Medicaid program participation earlier this year.
This move was part of Minnesota Revalidate 2026, a process ensuring agencies comply with state and federal regulations. Both Milestone and Spectrum Therapy have contested their removal from the program.
News of these investigations has ignited criticism towards Flanagan, who has held the position of Minnesota’s lieutenant governor since 2019. She has been questioned regarding her role in addressing the widespread fraud scandal affecting her home state over the last few years.
Online commentary has reflected this backlash. On social media platform X, Townhall columnist Dustin Grage pointed out Ahmed’s presence alongside Flanagan in a video where Flanagan donned a hijab, underscoring the gravity of the controversy. Other commentators, including conservative influencer LibsofTikTok and retired NYPD inspector Paul Mauro, expressed disbelief and frustration over the developments.
Grant Morgan, a previous therapist at Milestone, reported concerns about the center’s operations during his brief tenure there in late 2023. He noted the absence of necessary oversight from qualified professionals and the apparent lack of knowledge among staff regarding applied behavior analysis. Morgan stated that he never documented session notes, which are essential for Medicaid billing, and characterized the treatments provided as inadequate.
Despite Morgan’s claims, Ahmed defended Milestone’s practices. She accused those questioning her center’s care of bias related to her Somali heritage. Ahmed affirmed that all clients had diagnoses of autism and that the center adhered to state protocols and underwent regular audits.
Fox News Digital reached out to Ahmed and Milestone Development Center for further comments. This investigation adds complexity to Flanagan’s Senate candidacy amidst Minnesota’s broader fraud scandal. Flanagan’s political stance and actions during this time have garnered significant attention, impacting her position in the upcoming elections.