The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today announced the arrest of a Bronx income tax preparer. Cruz D. Acevedo, 49, allegedly prepared and filed false personal income tax returns showing fictitious expenses and stole clients’ tax refunds.

Ms. Acevedo, of 2115 Washington Avenue, was charged with:

·         Offering a False Instrument for Filing (3 counts)

·         Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (2 counts)

·         Attempted Grand Larceny in the Third Degree

·         Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Fourth Degree (2 counts)

·         Criminal Tax Fraud (3 counts)

·         Identity Theft in the Second Degree (2 counts), and

·         Scheme to Defraud.

Ms. Acevedo prepared tax returns under the business name Nostra Tax Service.

“As the income tax deadline approaches, taxpayers should consider free tax preparation options  available from the IRS, AARP and our Department, and if they do opt to hire a tax preparer, ensure that the individual is trustworthy and professional,” said Acting Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Kenneth Adams. “We thank the New York City Police Department and Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson for their assistance with this investigation and continued prosecution.”

The April 1 arrest followed an in-depth investigation by the Tax Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, including Principal Investigator Fanny Almanzar, Attorney Robert Eisman and Supervisor Antonio Mercado. The prosecution will be handled by Assistant District Attorney Michelle Milanes from Bronx District Attorney Robert Johnson’s office. 

A criminal complaint is an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

If you’re aware of a tax preparer who has engaged in illegal or improper conduct, contact the New York State Tax Department at (518) 530-HELP or file a tax preparer complaint online. 

Related information
- NYS Tax Commissioner: 4 Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Tax Preparer
- NYS Tax Department Launches NY’s First Tax Preparer Continuing Education Program