March 09 — Local police and the IRS raided a tax preparation office in Orlando on Wednesday night as part of an investigation of alleged tax fraud and identity theft.
The owner of the LBS tax office at 750 S. Orange Blossom Trail — who was in court on another case Thursday — said his business remains open and he continues to prepare tax returns for customers.
“It is up to the Department of Justice to investigate any misunderstanding. It is our responsibility to cooperate with the Department of Justice until the investigation is complete. After the investigation is complete, justice will prevail,” Josemari “Abner” Charles said. “My door is still open. We’re still answering calls and serving the community.”
Orlando police confirmed serving a search warrant on Charles’ business in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service. But the agency wouldn’t release details, noting that the investigation continues.
“OPD and the IRS are working an active investigation involving tax fraud and identity theft,” Sgt. Jim Young said.
State records show that Charles incorporated his business as Leading Business Services LLC, in December.
He would not say whether his business is related to a chain of tax-refund outlets known as LBS Tax Services, also known as Loan Buy Sell. That chain has been hit with numerous customer complaints of hidden fees.
Charles’ business has an almost identical logo and advertising, promising thousands in refunds for tax filers with children. That advertising landed him in Orange County Court on Thursday.
He pleaded guilty to 20 misdemeanor charges of illegally placing signs in medians and along roadways advertising quick tax refunds. County Judge Jeanette Dejuras Bigney fined him $3,400.
“It was probably the most obnoxious example of illegal signs we’ve had in quite a long time,” Orlando Code Enforcement Director Mike Rhodes said.
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Copyright 2013 – Orlando Sentinel
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Tags: Software
