In a shocking turn of events, Rita Elia Sanchez, a 45-year-old Odessa woman, pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false tax returns.
The crime, which took place between 2016 and 2018, has left a trail of financial devastation in its wake, with Sanchez agreeing to pay the IRS a staggering $7,953,546.81 in restitution.
According to court documents, Sanchez, who owned and operated an income tax preparation business from her home, willfully and knowingly helped prepare false Forms 1040 on behalf of her clients.
Sanchez faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. The sentencing date has not yet been set.
As part of her plea agreement, Sanchez agrees to pay the IRS $7,953,546.81 in restitution. Additionally, Sanchez is prohibited by law from preparing or filing federal tax returns for anyone other than herself.
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas and Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Houston Field Office made the announcement.
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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