Samuel Lawrence, Conspiracy to Defraud the United States, Florida 2023

Tampa, Florida – In a shocking turn of events, Samuel Lawrence, a Florida businessman, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and evade taxes, along with his wife Julee Lawrence. The couple's scheme, which spanned from January 2014 to September 2016, has left a trail of financial devastation in its wake.

According to court records, Samuel Lawrence owned and managed Innovative Marine Structures, LLC, a marine construction company operating in the Middle District of Florida. His wife, Julee Lawrence, handled payroll and other duties for the company. The couple's conspiracy involved cashing large corporate checks at a local bank and using those funds to pay certain employees in cash, while failing to report the employment of those employees on federal tax forms.

As a result of their actions, the couple caused their payroll company to fail to report and pay to the IRS the required federal employment taxes due from the payment of those employees' wages. The total amount of employment taxes that the company should have paid to the IRS on those employees' wages was approximately $238,483.

Samuel Lawrence and Julee Lawrence each face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. This case was investigated by the IRS - Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.

The couple's scheme has left a trail of financial devastation in its wake. Innovative Marine Structures, LLC, which was once a thriving marine construction company, is now facing financial ruin due to the couple's actions. The IRS - Criminal Investigation has been working tirelessly to bring the couple to justice, and their efforts have paid off.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of tax compliance and the severe consequences of tax evasion. It is essential for businesses and individuals to understand their tax obligations and take steps to ensure compliance. Failure to do so can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.

Samuel Lawrence, 50, and Julee Lawrence, 49, will face the music for their crimes. Their case is a stark reminder of the gravity of tax evasion and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.

Defendant/Respondent: Samuel Lawrence and Julee Lawrence

Criminal Charges: Conspiracy to defraud the United States

City and State: Tampa, Florida

Date: January 2014 to September 2016 (crime date)

Sentence: Maximum penalty of five years in federal prison

Dollar Amount: Approximately $238,483

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/placida-couple-pleads-guilty-conspiracy-defraud-united-states