Chicago’s Laurie Helfer, owner of ‘The Tax Lady Laurie,’ faces federal charges for orchestrating over $1 million in fraudulent tax refunds. Authorities allege Helfer, 55, falsely claimed credits like dependent exemptions and education expenses on behalf of clients between 2008-2010.
In a separate case, Lonnie Blakney, owner of ‘Blakney Tax Associates,’ is accused of preparing false returns for taxpayers in 2010 and 2011. Over $100,000 in fraudulent claims were made through his firm.
Attorney Timothy Liou was charged with willfully omitting over $637,000 from his income on tax returns filed between 2010-2012 for his ‘Liou Law Firm.’
U.S. Attorney Joel R. Levin emphasized the year-round nature of tax fraud investigations, noting, ‘Tax preparers and individuals who willfully file false returns will be held accountable.’ IRS Special Agent-in-Charge Gabriel L. Grchan added, ‘We pursue criminals year round; tax fraud does not know a season.’
Criminal penalties include incarceration, fines, and costs of prosecution, with tax evaders remaining responsible for all taxes due and civil penalties. False claims against the government may lead to restitution and civil lawsuits.
The public is reminded that charges are not evidence of guilt, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. For tips on choosing reputable tax professionals or preparing taxes, visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov.
Related Federal Cases
- Belleville Tax Fraudster Pleads Guilty · Illinois
- Tax Scammer Tanya Nichols Convicted in Illinois · Illinois
- Cig Smuggler Sychikov Admits to $160K Tax Dodge · Illinois
- Semere Tsehaye Convicted of Tax Evasion on $1.5M Hidden Income · Illinois
- Herbert C. Watts Jailed for Tax Evasion on $2.3M Cash Haul · Wisconsin
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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