Convicted Man Stole $149,358.35 from Feds
HAMMOND, Indiana – In a stunning case of financial deception, Airrion Blake, 41, of Lasing, Illinois, was convicted of one count of submitting a false claim upon the federal government and one count of theft of government money, after a three-day jury trial before U.S. District Court Judge Joseph S. Van Bokkelen.
Blake stole $149,358.35 from the federal government, according to the evidence presented to the jury. The scheme unfolded when he filed a false trusts and estates tax return in October 2012, providing fictitious figures for his income, deductions, and tax withholdings, and falsely claimed a refund of $149,358.35.
The refund check was deposited at a Munster, Indiana bank, and Blake proceeded to spend the funds. The case was the result of an investigation by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.
The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Alexandra McTague and Nathaniel Whalen. Blake’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of financial dishonesty and the importance of transparency in government dealings.
The exact date of the crime was October 2012, when Blake filed his false tax return. His current status is convicted, and the outcome of the case is pending sentencing.
As the investigation revealed, Blake’s actions had severe consequences, resulting in a substantial financial loss for the federal government. The case highlights the need for individuals to adhere to the law and avoid engaging in deceitful activities.
Key Facts
- State: Indiana
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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