Orlando, FL – James Fednor Meristin has admitted guilt in a conspiracy to defraud the United States, a charge that could lead to a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison. The sentencing date has not yet been determined.
Meristin was involved in a fraudulent tax preparation scheme from 2019 to 2023, operating under the business name Kings and Queens Multi Services. Along with his co-conspirators, Meristin filed false tax returns to secure inflated refunds for clients by improperly claiming COVID-related sick and family leave credits. These deceptive practices allowed them to charge exorbitant fees, sometimes reaching up to $20,000 per return.
Additionally, Meristin acknowledged inaccuracies and fraudulent elements in his own tax filings. As part of his plea agreement, he has agreed to pay $2,338,675 in restitution to the IRS.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert D. Sowell.
