An Idaho Couple Conspired With Three Others To Scam $57 Million From The IRS Using Bogus Tax Returns

A federal grand jury in Idaho indicted an Idaho couple and three other individuals with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Federal prosecutors have charged the Idaho couple with creating scheme for defrauding the IRS out of $57 million. The couple and the conspirators submitting false tax returns and fictious financial instruments to the IRS. The other three defendants had previously made their initial appearances in federal court in Boise. 

From 2023 through 2024, Andrea and Kent Shannon allegedly conspired with three other people to submit false individual tax returns. These five individuals filed tax returns claiming millions in refunds. However, there was one small issue. It was all a scam. 

The defendants sent more than 100 fictitious financial instruments to the IRS. These bogus documents included checks, money orders, or payment vouchers. They totaled approximately $57 million to the IRS. The conspirators’ goal was to fool the IRS. They wanted to make it appear that they had paid taxes. Therefore, they could receive a refund.  

The indictment further alleges that the Shannons used a portion of the false refunds for their personal use. They purchased a $90,000 Cadillac Escalade and a $144,000 GMC Sierra 3500.

Prosecutors have charged all defendants with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Authorities have also charged Andrea and Kent Shannon with wire fraud and filing false claims. Finally, prosecutors also charged Kent Shannon with money laundering.

All five defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy charge. The Shannons face an additional maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge. In addition, the Shannons face a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each false claim charge. Kent Shannon faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the money laundering charge.

Read More About Tax Fraudsters On MFI-Miami.com.