Memphis, Tennessee, February 10, 2026
Two Memphis tax preparers, Robert Wells and Andre Wilson, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy and preparing false tax returns, resulting in over $250,000 in losses to the U.S. Treasury. They falsely reported itemized deductions and business income for inflated client refunds. Both face significant prison time with sentencing dates set for May. The IRS emphasizes vigilance against tax preparation fraud among taxpayers.
Memphis Tax Preparers Admit to $250K IRS Fraud
Memphis, Tennessee – Two tax preparers have pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy and preparing false tax returns, resulting in a loss exceeding $250,000 to the U.S. Treasury. Robert Wells, 54, and Andre Wilson, 54, operated Wells and Wilson Financial, a Memphis-based tax preparation business, from at least 2019 through 2022. They conspired to defraud the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by preparing tax returns that included false itemized deductions, business income, or business deductions, leading to inflated refunds for their clients. Both men face significant prison time, with sentencing scheduled for May 6 and May 18, respectively.
Details of the Fraudulent Activities
According to court documents, Wells and Wilson prepared tax returns that falsely reported itemized deductions, business income, or business deductions. These fraudulent returns resulted in clients receiving refunds they were not entitled to, causing a total loss exceeding $250,000 to the U.S. Treasury. Both individuals have pleaded guilty to conspiracy and preparing false tax returns.
Legal Consequences
Wells and Wilson are scheduled to be sentenced on May 6 and May 18, respectively. Each faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiracy and three years in prison for preparing and filing false tax returns.
Background on Tax Preparation Fraud
Tax preparation fraud is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of the tax system and results in significant financial losses to the government. The IRS warns taxpayers to be vigilant when selecting tax preparers and to avoid those who promise inflated refunds or engage in fraudulent practices. Taxpayers should ensure their preparers are reputable and adhere to all legal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges did Robert Wells and Andre Wilson plead guilty to?
Robert Wells and Andre Wilson pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy and preparing false tax returns, resulting in a loss exceeding $250,000 to the U.S. Treasury.
What were the fraudulent activities conducted by Wells and Wilson?
Wells and Wilson prepared tax returns that falsely reported itemized deductions, business income, or business deductions, leading to inflated refunds for their clients.
What are the potential legal consequences for Wells and Wilson?
Each faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiracy and three years in prison for preparing and filing false tax returns.
How can taxpayers protect themselves from tax preparation fraud?
Taxpayers should be vigilant when selecting tax preparers, ensuring they are reputable and adhere to all legal requirements. The IRS warns against preparers who promise inflated refunds or engage in fraudulent practices.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Memphis, Tennessee |
| Individuals Involved | Robert Wells, 54; Andre Wilson, 54 |
| Business Name | Wells and Wilson Financial |
| Years of Operation | 2019 through 2022 |
| Fraudulent Activities | Preparing false tax returns with inflated refunds |
| Total Loss to U.S. Treasury | Exceeding $250,000 |
| Sentencing Dates | May 6 and May 18 |
| Potential Maximum Penalties | Five years for conspiracy; three years for false tax returns |
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