Just as tax season is reaching its peak, a Corpus Christi woman has been arrested for tax evasion and aiding in the preparation of false tax returns. On the eve of the federal tax filing deadline, Cristina Gonzalez was taken into custody on charges brought forth by Acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez and D. Richard Goss of IRS-Criminal Investigation.
A federal grand jury returned a 50-count indictment against Gonzalez on April 12, 2017, leading to her arrest this morning. She is set to make her initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby at 2:00 p.m. today.
Gonzalez is charged with 46 counts of willfully aiding and assisting in the preparation of false U.S. Income Tax Returns for others as well as four counts of willfully filing a false income tax return for herself. The indictment alleges she knowingly filed tax returns that underreported her income, resulting in a substantial tax due to the United States. Gonzalez also aided others in the preparation and filing of income tax returns that were false, according to the charges.
Those returns allegedly included tax credits which Gonzalez knew the taxpayers were not entitled to claim. Each conviction of tax evasion carries a possible maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, while aiding in the preparation of false tax returns carries a three-year-maximum term. Each conviction could also result in up to a $250,000 fine.
IRS-CI conducted the investigation, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert D. Thorpe Jr. is prosecuting the case. An indictment or information is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Gonzalez’s actions have not only compromised the integrity of the tax system but have also cheated the United States out of revenue that could be used for essential public services. Her case serves as a reminder that tax evasion will not be tolerated and that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable.
As the federal tax filing deadline approaches, taxpayers are advised to exercise caution and ensure that their returns are accurate and truthful. Any suspicious activity or questionable tax preparation practices should be reported to the authorities immediately.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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