Happy Friday!
The following case is another example of how the IRS’ Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is cracking down hard on identity theft and tax fraud schemes.
Anthony Hopkins, 40, of Wichita, Kansas has pleaded guilty to using stolen identities to file false tax returns. In his plea, Hopkins admitted to collecting income tax refunds based on false tax returns. Using stolen identities, he prepared and filed tax returns with the knowledge that the claims were false and that he didn’t have the authority to file the returns or to collect the refunds.
For his crimes, Hopkins faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
IRS Continues to Focus On Ways to Combat Identity Theft and Tax Fraud
Tax fraud and identity theft are and will continue to be a major issue for the IRS. As this story proves, they are continuing to combat these tax crimes head on. Their vigorous pursuit of tax fraud and identity theft cases has resulted in a rise of audits, criminal investigations and prosecutions.
With the IRS is more laser-focused on tax compliance more than ever before, if you have tax problems, you will want experienced tax representation on your side to get the tax relief you need. If you are facing IRS tax issues due to “questionable” tax reporting or have received an IRS audit letter you will want to hire an audit defense team to handle your case. Make sure the tax audit pros you choose have success negotiating an IRS tax settlement that will help resolve your tax issues for good.
Have a great holiday weekend!
