United States Attorney David Metcalf has announced the sentencing of James Jean, a 57-year-old tax preparer from Yeadon, Pennsylvania. Jean received a three-year prison sentence for filing false tax returns. Additionally, he was sentenced to a one-year term of supervised release and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine and restitution amounting to $12,717. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge John F. Murphy.
Jean’s conviction stems from his actions during the tax years 2018 through 2020. During this period, he prepared at least 146 tax returns that falsely claimed energy credits on behalf of his clients. These credits were for purported expenditures on wind turbines, solar panels, or other energy improvements. By including these false claims, Jean aimed to increase refunds and improve client satisfaction. This fraudulent activity resulted in his clients understating their tax liabilities by over $700,000.
In September 2024, Jean pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return. He also admitted responsibility for filing an additional 145 false returns as well as his own incorrect returns for the same period.
The investigation into Jean’s activities was conducted by IRS Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Abrams.
