Two city residents have been charged by the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District Peter J. Smith with conspiracy to file false income tax returns and trying to receive refunds of more than $1 million, according to Smith.
Cheryl Cobia, 27, and Sharieff Wilkins, 35, were charged in the alleged conspiracy to file the income tax returns between 2009 and 2011, Smith said.
Cobia allegedly also made false statements in applications for food stamp and medical assistance benefits.
The charge against Wilkins alleges that he submitted multiple false income tax returns for himself and others, Smith said.
Investigation was done by the Internal Revenue Service, and the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne P. Samuelson is assigned to prosecute the cases.
If found guilty, Cobia and Wilkins each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, Smith said.
