Tax Return Preparer Pleads Guilty To Filing False Tax Returns

PHILADELPHIA – Edward J. Rorie, 50, of Philadelphia, PA, a tax return preparer, pleaded guilty today to multiple counts of criminal tax fraud.  For tax years 2009 through 2011, Rorie prepared 968 federal income tax returns which sought refunds of $3.85 million.  The bogus refund claims were based on various tax credits which were part of the 2009 American Reinvestment Act, in addition to inflated and fictitious medical, dental and miscellaneous expenses.  Rorie faces a maximum sentence of 75 years in prison, a $2,500 special assessment, and a fine of up to $6.25 million dollars.  U.S. District Court Judge Anita B. Brody scheduled a sentencing hearing for February 11, 2015. 

In preparing the fraudulent returns, Rorie variously claimed expense deductions and tax credits to which the filers not entitled to receive. The tax credits included the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit, The Hope Tax Credit, The Earned Income Tax Credit, Education Credits, The Child Care Tax Credits and The Recovery Act’s Additional Child care Credit. The alleged loss to the Internal Revenue Service was at least $100,000.

The case was investigated by Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Floyd J. Miller.

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525