Torise Baker, Tax Fraud, Connecticut 2021

TORISE BAKER, a 37-year-old Bridgeport resident, has been charged with tax fraud offenses after a federal grand jury returned a 14-count indictment against her. The indictment was returned on April 6, 2021.

Baker owned and operated 101 Things 2 Do, LLC, a multi-service business in Bridgeport, where she prepared tax returns for clients. For the 2014 through 2016 tax years, Baker prepared numerous federal tax returns for taxpayers that claimed false deductions, including unreimbursed business expenses, charitable contributions, and tax preparation fees.

According to the indictment, Baker also failed to file her own federal tax return for the 2015 tax year. The indictment charges Baker with 13 counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false and fraudulent income tax returns, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of three years on each count, and one count of failure to file an income tax return, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of one year.

Baker appeared via videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Dave Vatti on April 7, 2021, entered a plea of not guilty, and was released on bond. Acting U.S. Attorney Leonard C. Boyle stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt and that charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation into Baker’s activities was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, and the case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter S. Jongbloed.

The Justice Department has issued a statement warning taxpayers to avoid fraudulent tax preparers and providing resources for taxpayers and tax preparers. Taxpayers are advised to be cautious when selecting a tax preparer and to check the IRS website for a list of qualified and approved tax preparers.

Baker’s case is a reminder of the importance of tax compliance and the consequences of tax fraud. Taxpayers are urged to take advantage of the resources available to them to ensure accurate and honest tax reporting.

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