CALIFORNIA – The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced February 9 that a California man pleaded guilty to filing false federal income tax returns.
Marice Curry, 35, of Fresno, filed more than 50 false tax returns for businesses claiming more than $1.5 million in fraudulent refunds in 2023, according to court documents.
He claimed refundable fuel tax credits for the businesses, knowing they weren’t entitled to them.
The credits let businesses recover excise taxes paid on fuel used for nontaxable, off-highway purposes, like farming and fishing.
Spike in tax scams circulating on social media
The IRS has warned taxpayers about a surge in false and misleading tax advice on social media.
This misinformation has led to thousands of improper refund claims, including bogus filings for the Fuel Tax Credit, Sick and Family Leave Credit, and household employment taxes.
Many posts falsely claim that all taxpayers are eligible for credits they do not actually qualify for, such as those meant for self-employed individuals or businesses.
People who follow this advice could end up with rejected claims and penalties of up to $5,000, in addition to any other penalties that might apply.
So far, the IRS has imposed over 32,000 penalties, costing taxpayers more than $162 million.
Faces up to 3 years in prison
Curry is set for sentencing by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on May 26, 2026. Curry faces up to three years in prison and a $100,000 fine.
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