Aisha Wright, False Tax Returns, Illinois 2023

Aisha Wright, 33, of Alton, Illinois, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after being convicted of making false claims against the US government. Wright, who operated A W Mobile Taxes in Alton, was found to have systematically prepared false tax returns for numerous taxpayers.

The scheme, which was uncovered by the Scheme Development Center of the IRS, involved Wright falsifying Schedule A deductions, Schedule C self-employment income, and education expenses for the education tax credit. Two undercover agents went to Wright's tax preparation business, and she prepared fraudulent returns for both of them. Further investigation revealed that Wright filed 492 federal income tax returns over a three-year period, causing a total actual loss to the US government in excess of $1,000,000.

The court ordered Wright to pay restitution in the amount of $1,052,302.86, as part of her sentence. She was also required to serve 450 hours of community service as a condition of her supervised release, following her release from prison.

The successful prosecution was the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigations, the US Postal Inspection Service, the US Secret Service, and the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. Assistant United States Attorney Norman R. Smith prosecuted the case.

Wright's business, A W Mobile Taxes, catered to a wide range of taxpayers, but her false tax returns caused significant financial losses to the US government. The IRS's Scheme Development Center played a crucial role in uncovering the scheme, which ultimately led to Wright's conviction.

Aisha Wright's sentence serves as a reminder of the severity of tax-related crimes and the importance of compliance with tax laws. The US government will continue to pursue those who engage in tax evasion and other financial crimes.

The case highlights the need for taxpayers to be vigilant and ensure that their tax returns are accurate and truthful. Taxpayers who are aware of any suspicious activity or false tax returns should report it to the authorities immediately.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdil/pr/alton-woman-sentenced-prison-false-tax-returns