A Minneapolis-area father and son have been indicted in an alleged tax fraud conspiracy that federal prosecutors say used false refund claims and a guide called “TurboTax Sauce the ‘Self-Employed’ Way.”
LaMar Javis Burgess, 44, and his son, LaMar Dazjar Burgess, 23, are accused of preparing and filing false federal income tax returns for themselves and others between June 2022 and October 2024, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota.
The indictment was unsealed June 11. Both men are charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States and six counts of making false claims.
Federal prosecutors say the returns claimed refunds the defendants and other taxpayers were not entitled to receive. The government has not listed a final loss amount, but prosecutors said returns containing millions of dollars in false claims were allegedly filed.
Prosecutors Say The Scheme Used False Tax Credits
According to court documents cited by prosecutors, LaMar Javis Burgess allegedly obtained videos and instruction manuals on how to file false federal tax returns, including the “TurboTax Sauce” guide.
Prosecutors say he worked with his son and other alleged conspirators to promote the scheme. In exchange for filing false returns, he allegedly charged taxpayers a portion of their refunds as his fee.
The defendants allegedly solicited names, addresses, Social Security numbers, photo identification, and bank account information from other taxpayers. Prosecutors say the returns included employment and tax credit information they knew was false.
The indictment alleges the men filed false 2021 returns claiming refundable sick and family leave tax credits available to certain self-employed people unable to work because of COVID-19. They also allegedly filed false 2022 returns claiming other refundable tax credits.
The Father Also Faces A Firearm Charge
LaMar Javis Burgess is also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Prosecutors say he was found with a Glock 19, 9 mm semi-automatic handgun.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office said his prior convictions prohibit him from possessing firearms or ammunition. A federal court ordered him detained pending trial after his initial appearance and detention hearing.
If convicted, both defendants face up to 10 years in prison on the conspiracy charge and up to five years on each false-claim count. LaMar Javis Burgess also faces up to 15 years if convicted on the firearm charge.
Big Refund Promises Can Put Taxpayers At Risk
Tax returns were allegedly filed for other taxpayers too. That creates a separate risk for anyone who hands over a Social Security number, bank account information, identification, and tax records to someone promising a larger refund.
The IRS says taxpayers should use a reputable preparer who signs the return, includes a Preparer Tax Identification Number, and gives the taxpayer a copy. The agency also warns taxpayers never to sign a blank return and to review the entire return before signing because they are responsible for the accuracy of what is filed.
The charges are allegations. Both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.