By: Richard L. Smith
Omar Khater, a 33-year-old tax preparer from Fairfield, confessed to orchestrating a fraud that deceived the IRS out of over $4.4 million.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced that Khater pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to defraud the IRS before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti.
The intricate scheme, crafted by Khater and his relative, Walid Khater of Arizona, involved the theft of personal identities to falsely file tax returns and illicitly claim refunds.
The duo and accomplices electronically submitted fabricated tax documents to the IRS, erroneously reporting income or gambling winnings and demanding substantial tax refunds.
These fraudulent claims led the U.S. Treasury to issue approximately $4.49 million in refunds, which were then funneled into various bank accounts controlled by the conspirators.
As the legal proceedings continue with Omar Khater facing sentencing on June 12, 2024, authorities emphasize the gravity of safeguarding personal information, especially with the tax filing season approaching.
The case against Walid Khater is still pending, underscoring the ongoing efforts to dismantle such fraudulent operations and hold the perpetrators accountable.