Tampa Man Sentenced for Tax Refund Fraud
A former Assisted Living Facility worker has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for his role in a tax refund fraud scheme. Willie L. Lee, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Susan C. Bucklew on May 17, 2017 for aggravated identity theft. Lee was also ordered to pay $32,933 in restitution.
Lee, who was employed at an Assisted Living Facility in Tampa, conspired with another individual to steal personal identifying information from patients and deceased individuals. The personal identifying information was then used to file fraudulent income tax returns that were electronically deposited into an account that Lee had opened and maintained.
The scheme, which took place in 2012 and 2013, was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jay L. Hoffer.
Lee pleaded guilty to the charges on May 17, 2017, and was subsequently sentenced by Judge Bucklew. The restitution ordered by the court will go towards compensating the victims of Lee’s scheme.
The tax refund fraud scheme was a complex operation that involved the theft of personal identifying information from vulnerable individuals. Lee’s sentence serves as a reminder that those who engage in such schemes will be held accountable for their actions.
Lee’s case is a reminder of the importance of protecting personal identifying information and being vigilant in the face of identity theft. The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation continues to work tirelessly to investigate and prosecute those who engage in tax refund fraud schemes.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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