⏱ 2 min read
Christopher Slater, a California man, and Mark Keagel, a Pennsylvania resident, have been charged in a $52 million COVID-19 tax credit fraud conspiracy. The scheme involved filing hundreds of false tax returns claiming Paid Sick and Family Leave Credit and Employee Retention Credit, with the goal of defrauding the United States of over $52.7 million. The indictment alleges that Slater and Keagel conspired to recruit business owners, use their information to file false tax returns, and then launder the proceeds of the fraud.
The conspiracy, which took place over several months, resulted in the IRS paying out over $32.2 million in fraudulent tax credits. Slater allegedly caused at least 280 false tax returns to be filed for 35 businesses, while Keagel’s defunct businesses were used to file false tax returns, resulting in approximately $3.6 million in fraudulent Treasury checks being mailed to him.
The investigation was led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, with assistance from the FBI and other agencies. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19 related fraud and protect taxpayer-funded pandemic relief funds.
Slater and Keagel face charges of conspiracy, mail fraud, money laundering, and theft of government property. If convicted, they could face significant prison time and fines. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation in preventing and prosecuting COVID-19 related fraud.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Pennsylvania
- Location: PA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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