Rhonda Ackerman, Failing to File Tax Returns, Washington 2014
A Spokane woman is facing the consequences of her actions after pleading guilty to failing to file federal income tax returns. Rhonda Ackerman, 54, willfully failed to file tax returns for the years 2014, 2015, and 2016 while employed as a liability claims technician at Spokane County Department of Risk Management.
According to court documents, Ackerman's failure to file tax returns resulted in a maximum statutory penalty of a 1-year term of imprisonment, a $100,000 fine, followed by a 1-year term of supervised release, the payment of restitution and the costs of prosecution for each count of conviction.
“Law abiding taxpayers fund critical services that keep our community safe and strong,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref. “Each of us is responsible for filing a tax return when required and for paying the correct amount of tax due. While working for Spokane County, Ms. Ackerman chose to ignore her duty to file and pay taxes and will now face the consequences.
Senior United States District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Ackerman is scheduled to be sentenced on May 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Spokane, Washington.
Ackerman's actions not only hurt her personally, but also the community she served. As a liability claims technician, she was entrusted with public funds, which she proceeded to steal over a decade. In a separate prosecution in Spokane County Superior Court, Ackerman was convicted on one count of First Degree Theft and sentenced to serve a year in state prison and repay $1,378,541 in public funds.
The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, with the assistance of the Spokane Police Department, investigated the case. George J.C. Jacobs, III, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, is prosecuting the case.
Ackerman's case serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity in public service. As a liability claims technician, she was entrusted with the public's trust, and her actions betrayed that trust. The consequences of her actions will be severe, and she will soon face the repercussions of her choices.
Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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