Shawn Fuentes, Mail Fraud and Tax Evasion, Florida 2014

Fort Myers, FL – In a shocking turn of events, former Naples Concrete and Masonry Chief Financial Officer Shawn Fuentes has been handed a five-year prison sentence for mail fraud and tax evasion. The sentence, handed down by U.S. District Judge John E. Steele, also includes a hefty restitution order of $1,951,459 to Naples Concrete and Masonry and $624,728 to the IRS. Fuentes was also ordered to pay a money judgment of $106,979.14, the proceeds of the mail fraud scheme.

According to court documents, Fuentes’ scheme involved writing checks payable to American Express and Bank of America drawn on the company’s bank accounts and sending them via U.S. mail or Federal Express to satisfy her own credit card debt. The fraudulent checks appeared to be legitimate business expenses in the company’s accounting system, but were actually used to pay Fuentes’ personal expenses. As a result, she obtained over $500,000 through her scheme.

Furthermore, Fuentes filed a 2009 tax return reporting a taxable income of approximately $35,148, but omitted the amount of money she defrauded from Naples Concrete and Masonry. The actual taxable income she received was $822,060, resulting in a tax bill of $262,081 that she failed to pay. Instead, she paid a mere $2,671 in taxes for the calendar year 2009.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Internal Revenue Service, with Assistant United States Attorney Yolande G. Viacava leading the prosecution. Fuentes pleaded guilty to the charges on July 17, 2014.

The sentence is a stark reminder of the consequences of white-collar crime and the importance of ethical business practices. Fuentes’ actions not only harmed her employer but also put her own financial future at risk.

As the Grimy Times continues to investigate this case, we will provide updates and insights into the world of financial crimes and the individuals who commit them. Stay tuned for more on this developing story.

Shawn Fuentes’ sentencing is a significant blow to the financial community, and a reminder that those who engage in criminal activities will be held accountable.

The case serves as a warning to all business leaders and executives to prioritize transparency and integrity in their financial dealings.

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