Million-Dollar Identity Theft Ring Cracked

Million-Dollar Identity Theft Ring Cracked in Phenix City

Three women from Alabama and Georgia are facing serious charges in connection with a massive stolen identity refund fraud scheme.

Tamaica Hoskins and Roberta Pyatt, both of Phenix City, Alabama, and Lashelia Alexander, of Columbus, Georgia, were indicted for their roles in the scheme that involved obtaining stolen identities and using those identities to file over 1,000 federal income tax returns claiming more than $4 million in tax refunds.

According to the indictment, Hoskins and Pyatt took the scheme to the next level by opening bank accounts to receive tax preparation fees and even printing out fraudulent tax refunds using check stock provided by financial institutions.

The group allegedly caused the fraudulent checks to be cashed at several businesses and banks, netting them significant profits. The indictment also charges that Hoskins and Pyatt used Alexander’s help to carry out the scheme.

If convicted, the defendants face severe penalties, including a statutory maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy to commit wire fraud count and 10 years in prison for each theft of public money count. They are also facing mandatory restitution and fines.

The case was investigated by special agents of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys Michael Boteler and Gregory Bailey of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Brown for the Middle District of Alabama are prosecuting the case.

An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The case is a stark reminder of the dangers of identity theft and the importance of protecting one’s personal information.

The indictment highlights the brazen nature of the scheme, which involved using stolen identities to file fake tax returns and cashing fraudulent checks. The case is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies to crack down on financial crimes and protect the public.

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