Investigators say they have arrested three people connected to an alleged
identity theft and tax fraud scheme. Law enforcement says the three people
from New Jersey hoped to steal identities and use them to file fraudulent
tax returns to get refunds. This accusation is serious and people accused
of tax fraud and identity theft might be wise to speak with a criminal
defense attorney.

An attorney can help those accused of crimes understand their rights and
work to protect them. It is important that all information and evidence
law enforcement tries to use was acquired legally. Any illegally acquired
evidence could be a violation of the accused person’s rights.

According to a report, the people involved allegedly tried to file tax
returns on behalf of 18 people who resided at the place where some of
the accused people worked. They reportedly worked at a development center
in North Jersey.

Not only could the people in this case face up to 10 years in prison for
conspiracy to submit false claims against the United States and five years
for identity theft, but they may also face large fines. On top of the
potential punishments if a person is convicted, people who have a criminal
record may have a harder time finding employment and housing.

Because of the severe consequences of many crimes, it is important to formulate
a rigorous criminal defense. An attorney can help evaluate the evidence
and make sure that investigators don’t overstep their bounds and violate
the rights of the accused.

Source: NJ Today, “Three Arrested In Connection With Alleged ID Theft/Tax Fraud Scheme,” Aug. 13, 2012

-Our law firm handles cases similar to the one discussed above. To learn
more please visit our white collar criminal defense page.