Local Businessman Heads to Prison for Tax Evasion
In a shocking turn of events, Matthew V. Blackwell, 41, of Woodbridge, Connecticut, has been sentenced to 21 months in prison for tax evasion. According to court documents and statements made in court, Blackwell embezzled $927,143 from a family-owned food company in Orange between 2012 and 2016.
Blackwell, who was the Vice President of Operations at the company, created false purchase orders and invoices that he presented to the company controller, who had no knowledge of their fraudulent nature. He then deposited the funds into a business checking account that he controlled and transferred them to his personal bank accounts.
As a result of his actions, Blackwell filed federal income tax returns that omitted the embezzled income for the 2012 through 2016 tax years, resulting in a tax loss of $285,361 to the IRS. Despite paying his back taxes, Blackwell still owes interest and penalties.
On December 9, 2021, Blackwell pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion. He was released on bond and is required to report to prison on May 5.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Chen.
The sentencing of Blackwell sends a strong message to those who think they can evade the law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and bring you updates as more information becomes available.
Mandatory Facts:
Defendant: Matthew V. Blackwell
Criminal Charge: Tax Evasion
City and State: Woodbridge, Connecticut
Date: December 9, 2021 (plea), May 5 (report to prison)
Sentence: 21 months in prison, $10,000 fine, 120 hours of community service
Dollar Amount: $927,143 (embezzled), $285,361 (tax loss)
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Key Facts
- State: Connecticut
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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