Tax Preparer Sentenced to 87 Months for Filing False Returns

A Robert, Louisiana, woman has been sentenced to serve 87 months in prison for filing false income tax returns and identity theft, announced the Justice Department and IRS.

Hazel M. McGary, 46, aka Hazel M. Alexander and Hazel M. Kimble, was also ordered to serve two years of supervised release following her prison term and to pay $148,673 in restitution to the IRS.

McGary owned and operated a series of tax preparation businesses under different names, including Just for You Services, Just For Taxes and H&H Unlimited Services, in Hammond, Albany, Baton Rouge and Covington, Louisiana. The Albany location even offered a drive-through window for clients.

According to court documents, McGary prepared and filed false returns that claimed artificially high tax refunds, primarily by abusing the Earned Income Tax Credit.

McGary obtained electronic filing numbers from the IRS using the names and social security numbers of other individuals in an effort to hide her fraudulent activity. She falsely listed these other individuals’ names and identification numbers on the returns she filed but did not identify herself as the preparer.

Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Larry J. Wszalek would like to thank IRS-Criminal Investigation, in partnership with the Louisiana State Police, who investigated the case, and Trial Attorneys Hayden Brockett and Kevin Lombardi of the Tax Division, who prosecuted the case.

The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of tax fraud and the importance of reporting suspicious activity to the IRS.

McGary’s crimes had a significant impact on the state of Louisiana, with the IRS suffering a loss of $148,673 due to her actions.

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