Federal law enforcement authorities take tax evasion and fraud very seriously. Individuals found guilty of federal tax crimes, such as willfully evading taxes or defrauding the government of tax revenue, can face harsh consequences. Because of the serious consequences of a conviction, it is vital that individuals facing a federal case for tax crimes consult with an experienced federal criminal defense attorney immediately.
Federal authorities are currently requesting assistance from the public to locate three Southern California men accused of participating in a tax fraud scheme. The men allegedly received more than $27 million in fraudulent tax refunds. In addition to the three men, there were 55 other individuals charged in the same conspiracy just last week. Twenty-two of those individuals have already been taken into federal custody.
After a two-year federal investigation, prosecutors have charged the men with mail and wire fraud, money laundering, conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. According to the federal grand-jury indictments, the group stole more than 3,500 identities to file false claims with the IRS, resulting in the agency paying out more than $7 million. In total, there were more than 2,000 fraudulent tax filings, according to authorities.
While tax crimes are rather rare in the United States, compared to the size of the population, the penalties for a federal tax crime conviction are serious. Under federal law, individuals found guilty of tax crimes can face long prison sentences in federal institutions, hefty monetary fines and forfeiture of property. Because of the gravity of the offense, it is important that anyone accused of a tax crime take the matter seriously.
Source: CBS 8, “Feds seek help in finding fraud fugitives,” Oct. 03, 2013