Milwauke daycare operator accused of fraud

Federal authorities have been building a case against Latasha Wilder, also known as Latasha Jackson, for almost two years, and Tuesday, they filed an indictment in court. Authorities accuse Wilder of using two daycares she owned to fraudulently obtain thousands in reimbursements from the state, and the Wisconsin Works program.

Under the program, known as W-2, money is given to daycares so poor moms can go back to work. The federal government claims Wilder filed reimbursements for kids who never attended her business, or had not been there in months. In January, Wilder was among four individuals accused of scamming the state for about $30,000. Wire transfer claims show Wilder made over $275,000 in fake claims.

This is money Wilder has been accused of using to buy a lavish mansion in Menomonee Falls, that mysteriously burned to the ground back in 2009. The Menomonee Falls Fire Department says the investigation into the fire was handed over to state and federal authorities in 2009, and they have yet to hear of any findings.

The latest charges against Wilder could come with a penalty of half a million dollars and up to 20 years in jail. Wilder's attorney says she will make her case in court. Federal documents say she is now living outside of Houston, Texas, but her lawyer says she will be back in Wisconsin when she is set to face the charges against her, starting in January.