Lori Bradford, a 56-year-old Southfield woman, has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for her involvement in filing false tax returns for clients. The sentencing took place on Thursday in an Oakland County Circuit Court, as announced by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel on Friday.
Bradford pleaded guilty to four counts of uttering and publishing, three counts of using a computer to commit a crime, and three counts of making false tax returns as part of an agreement with prosecutors. In addition to the prison term, Bradford is required to pay $25,000 toward the costs associated with prosecuting the case.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized the importance of tax preparers adhering to the law and operating with integrity. Nessel stated, “Tax preparers have a responsibility to follow the law, to operate with integrity, and to prepare their clients’ tax returns honestly and accurately. People who cheat the tax system hurt everyone. Tax dollars support our schools, fix our roads, and support state and local government.”
Bradford, identified as a four-time habitual offender, allegedly prepared and filed tax returns containing false statements and fictitious claims for refunds. Authorities claim that she manipulated the withholding amounts on clients’ genuine W-2s, inflating them to generate larger refund claims. When state treasury department officials sought to verify the accuracy of the returns, Bradford reportedly provided false W-2s and supporting documentation.
The legal proceedings against Bradford commenced in November 2022 when she was arraigned on charges. After pleading guilty in June, the initial charges included 17 counts of making/permitting false returns (each a five-year felony), 17 counts of using a computer to commit a crime (each a seven-year felony), and nine counts of uttering and publishing (each a 14-year felony).
The sentencing serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for those who engage in fraudulent tax practices and the broader impact on public services supported by tax dollars.
