Racyna Antoinette Henry, Aiding and Assisting in Tax Preparation, T…

TYLER, TEXAS – Racyna Antoinette Henry, 38, of Longview, Texas, isn’t just facing a hefty fine – she’s staring down federal prison time after admitting to a years-long scheme to cook the books and rip off the U.S. government. The Gregg County woman pleaded guilty May 14, 2013, to aiding and assisting in the preparation of fraudulent federal tax returns, according to U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.

The feds say Henry started her illicit operation back in 2006, initially working from her home for Preyear’s Tax and Check Cashing Services, LLC, a company based in Alabama. By October 2007, she’d branched out, launching her own business, Henry’s Tax Service LLC, also run out of her residence. But behind the legitimate facade, Henry was allegedly building a house of cards based on lies.

Court documents reveal Henry wasn’t just making simple mistakes. She was actively crafting false tax returns, inflating claims with bogus dependents, fraudulent child tax credits, fabricated child and dependent care expenses, and even phantom losses from farming activities. She also allegedly falsified earned income tax credits, all to pad her clients’ refunds – and line her own pockets.

The scope of the fraud is significant. Investigators estimate the total tax loss resulting from Henry’s actions between 2006 and 2010 to be a staggering $200,000 to $400,000. That’s a lot of taxpayer money stolen, and the government isn’t letting it slide. Henry now faces up to 3 years in federal prison, along with a court order to pay full restitution for the damage she caused.

The IRS spearheaded the investigation, digging into Henry’s business practices and uncovering the systematic fraud. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan R. Jackson is prosecuting the case, ensuring Henry is held accountable for her actions. A sentencing date has not yet been set, leaving Henry in limbo as she awaits her fate.

This case serves as a stark reminder that tax fraud is a serious federal crime with real consequences. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments as they occur. Don’t try to game the system – the IRS is watching, and they’re ready to come down hard on anyone who tries to cheat Uncle Sam.