A Birmingham tax preparer has been sentenced for preparing false tax returns for clients, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona. Geta Barr, the owner of Maxi Tax Resource, LLC, a tax preparation business in Birmingham, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of a false and fraudulent tax return.
U.S. District Judge Sharon L. Blackburn sentenced Barr to 18 months in prison. The sentence comes after Barr pleaded guilty in February 2025 to the charge. According to the plea agreement, Barr prepared false tax returns for at least 14 different clients between tax years 2016 and 2020.
The false returns included false Schedule Cs reporting losses for fabricated businesses, as well as false itemized deductions and standard deductions. This fraudulent conduct resulted in a total tax loss to the IRS of over $300,000. The Internal Revenue Service investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan S. Rummage.
Of the approximately 900 returns that Barr prepared for tax years 2017, 2018, and 2019, 96% claimed refunds. The high percentage of refunds raised red flags and led to the investigation. Barr’s actions were a clear abuse of trust and a violation of the law, and the sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime.
The case highlights the importance of honesty and integrity in tax preparation. Tax preparers have a responsibility to their clients and to the government to prepare accurate and truthful returns. When this responsibility is violated, it can result in serious consequences, including prison time and significant financial penalties.
The sentencing of Geta Barr serves as a warning to other tax preparers who may be tempted to engage in similar fraudulent activities. The government will continue to investigate and prosecute those who violate the law and abuse the trust of their clients. The public can report suspected tax fraud to the Internal Revenue Service or the U.S. Attorney’s office.
In addition to the prison sentence, Barr may also face other consequences, including fines and restitution. The total tax loss of over $300,000 will likely be the subject of a restitution order, requiring Barr to pay back the amount of the loss. The case will also be reviewed by the Internal Revenue Service to determine if any additional actions are necessary.
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Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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