A Kansas tax preparer has been brought to justice after pleading guilty to filing false federal tax returns. Marcelino Almaraz, 60, of Holcomb, Kansas, was charged with one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false income tax return and one count of filing a false tax return.
According to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister, Almaraz owned a convenience store in Holcomb and also provided tax preparation and accounting services through his business Accounting Services. In 2016, he was accused of preparing income tax returns that generated large federal income tax refunds for his clients. Almaraz admitted to providing false information on tax returns, including claiming four grandchildren as dependents for one client when in fact they lived with the man’s wife in Mexico.
Almaraz also filed a false return that substantially understated his own business income. He faces a penalty of up to three years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. Almaraz has agreed to pay restitution of over $397,000.
The Internal Revenue Service, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jabari Wamble, and the Justice Department’s Tax Division were commended for their work on the case. Sentencing is set for May 14.
The defendant, Marcelino Almaraz, is set to face the consequences of his actions. He will have the opportunity to serve up to three years in federal prison and pay a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. Additionally, he will be required to pay restitution of over $397,000.
Almaraz’s actions have led to a significant amount of restitution being ordered. Over $397,000 will be paid back to those affected by his actions. This is a significant consequence for the defendant and a reminder of the importance of honesty in tax filing.
Kansas tax preparer Marcelino Almaraz has been held accountable for his actions. His guilty plea and agreed-upon restitution are a reminder of the importance of integrity in the tax preparation industry.
Key Facts
- State: Kansas
- Category: Tax Evasion
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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