Independent journalist Nick Shirley has reported receiving death threats following the release of a video that alleges fraud at daycare centers in Minnesota. The threats have escalated to include warnings aimed at his family, creating a climate of fear surrounding his investigative work. During a recent appearance on the PBD Podcast, Shirley detailed the nature of the threats, which referenced the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Shirley’s investigation targeted publicly funded daycare centers, claiming they received substantial state payments while appearing largely empty. One particular facility reportedly collected around $4 million in taxpayer funding, raising questions about the allocation of public resources. As his video gained traction, Shirley stated that he faced an increase in threats, both online and in person.
In his podcast comments, he expressed concern for his family, stating, “I honestly feel bad for my family… you guys are coming after me like I’m some sort of villain.” He noted that his younger sister had received threatening phone calls, which added to the distress of the situation.
Shirley emphasized that his investigation was centered on financial accountability rather than political motivations. “I didn’t make this a right-or-left issue,” he explained. “I just showed you guys that fraud was happening.”
The backlash against Shirley’s claims has been significant. On December 29, Tikki Brown, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families, stated that previous inspections had not uncovered any evidence of fraud. “We do take the concerns that the video raises about fraud very seriously,” Brown said during a news conference.
Following the release of Shirley’s video, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced on December 30 that it would suspend childcare payments to Minnesota pending further investigation. The fallout from Shirley’s allegations has caused a significant stir, leading to increased scrutiny of the state’s daycare funding practices.
Shirley remains determined to pursue his investigation despite the threats. He is focused on uncovering the truth behind the funding of these daycare centers and ensuring accountability for the use of taxpayer money.
This incident not only highlights the potential dangers faced by journalists in exposing wrongdoing but also raises critical questions about oversight and transparency in publicly funded programs. The situation continues to develop, and further investigations are likely as authorities respond to the allegations.
As discussions around daycare funding and fraud allegations unfold, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges independent journalists face in their pursuit of truth and accountability.
