We have an update on a tax-fraud scam we've been tracking for more than five years. Tapera and Callista Chiwocha of Okemos have pleaded guilty to filing false tax returns and stealing nearly $1.5 million dollars.
Our cameras were rolling when the FBI raided their home on White Owl Way off Okemos Road in November of 2011. The retired LCC professor and his wife met homeless people through their company Human Services Associates.
They would use the offer of free stimulus money to trick them into giving up their personal information. The information was then used to file tax returns.
The couple would pocket the money. They'll be sentenced July 31st.
Two of their daughters and three grandchildren are already serving prison time for their involvement in the scam.
