Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Jon Collins
St. Paul, Minn.

Minn. Guard confirms recruiting investigation

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Army investigators are looking into at least three incidents of possible fraud in Minnesota involving a National Guard recruiting program. The Guard Recruiting Assistance Program started in 2005 to boost recruitment. It offered cash payments for referring applicants to the National Guard. But in recent weeks the Army has revealed that about 1,200 people are being criminally investigated for defrauding the program across the country.

Minnesota National Guard Spokesperson Lt. Colonel Kevin Olson said the state guard investigated 2,719 "recruiting assistants" who received a cash payment from the program in Minnesota. The Minnesota National Guard noted 16 cases of possible fraud for further investigation, which U.S. Army investigators have winnowed down to just three.

"We have been working closely with military and civilian authorities to pursue prosecution and restitution where fraud was committed, and to discipline those who were negligent in their duties," Olson said.

The Minnesota National Guard's investigation started on Jan. 6, 2011. They're not releasing the names or details of possible fraud cases in the state.

The Guard paid out about $300 million for the program between 2005 and 2012, when it ended. Army officials have said that about 800 soldiers around the country are suspected of fraud. About 200 officers, including two generals, are also being investigated.