The ongoing tension surrounding Minnesota’s childcare sector took a criminal turn this week. Managers of the Nokomis Day Care Center, a Somali-owned facility in Minneapolis, reported a targeted break-in and the theft of sensitive administrative records.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM. According to the Minneapolis Police Department, officers found clear signs of forced entry. The timing of the burglary is particularly significant, coming just days after viral reports by YouTuber Nick Shirley alleged large-scale fraud within Somali-run daycares in the state.
Targeted Theft of Employee and Child Records
Unlike a typical burglary where electronics or cash might be the primary target, the intruders at Nokomis focused on documentation. Nasrulah Mohamed, the center’s manager, revealed that the stolen items included:
- Enrollment Records: Private data belonging to children and their families.
- Employee Files: Personal information and background checks of staff members.
- Financial Documents: Check-related paperwork and billing records.
“This is devastating news,” Mohamed said during a press conference. “We don’t know why this is targeting our Somali community, as one video made by a specific individual made this all happen.”
The “Nick Shirley” Effect
Although Nokomis Day Care Center was not featured in Nick Shirley’s 42-minute investigative video, Mohamed believes the general “anti-Somali” sentiment sparked by the footage led to this attack. He noted that the center has been bombarded with hateful messages and threats since the video went viral.
Shirley’s video, which has amassed millions of views, claims that state-funded childcare facilities are misappropriating upwards of $100 million. While federal authorities have previously charged individuals in unrelated Minnesota fraud cases, the daycare community argues that these viral videos are painting an entire community with a broad, damaging brush.
Licensing and Compliance Record
Data from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) shows that Nokomis Day Care Center is a legitimate operation licensed for 71 children.
- History: The center has been in operation since 2016.
- Compliance: Its record shows only minor violations (such as menu requirements), both of which were promptly corrected in October.
Federal Funding Freeze
The burglary occurs against a backdrop of severe financial consequences for the state. Following the viral allegations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a freeze on a portion of the $185 million in federal childcare funding typically allocated to Minnesota. The federal government now requires strict proof of legitimacy before releasing further payments.
Minneapolis police have confirmed that the investigation into the burglary is active, though no suspects have been identified or arrested at this time.