By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Middlesex County announced that a long-time tax preparer was sentenced after pleading guilty to failure to file a tax return.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said in the summer of 2021, authorities received numerous reports of the filing of scores of questionable personal income tax returns on behalf of residents in Middlesex County.
A subsequent investigation conducted by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Monroe Township Police Department, and the New Jersey Department of Treasury, Division of Taxation’s Office of Criminal Investigation revealed that Jerry R. Jones, 82, of Monroe, filed hundreds of income tax returns that were fraudulent and often claimed deductions, business expenses or exemptions to which the taxpayer was not entitled to claim, officials stated.
According to officials, these fraudulent filings frequently resulted in refunds or underpayment of income tax.
The investigation into Jones’ tax preparation business resulted in the return of an initial indictment by a Middlesex County Grand Jury on August 16, 2022, officials say.
Officials said the indictment charged Jones with second-degree possessing False Government Documents, more specifically, fraudulent birth certificates and a stamp for the United States Internal Revenue Service.
Authorities say these items were recovered from his residence during the execution of a search warrant.
Additional investigation revealed that Jones failed to file a tax return on his own behalf for the income he derived from preparing and filing other individuals’ tax returns.
Officials said Jones ultimately pleaded guilty to failure to file a tax return.
On March 1, the Honorable Andrea Carter, J.S.C., sentenced Jones to a five-year state prison term, which was suspended for Jones's payment to the New Jersey Treasury in connection with his tax delinquency, authorities say.
As part of his sentence, officials say, Jones agreed not to file tax returns for anyone but himself or provide financial or accounting planning or advice for any other individuals.
Officials stated that any individuals who utilized the tax-related services of Jerry R. Jones are advised to re-examine their prior tax returns for any potential irregularities.
Those who need further assistance may contact Detective Marcus Goode of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-4274.