Broward tax preparer accused of defrauding Florida seniors, arrested

FLORIDA — A tax preparer is facing charges of fraud and money laundering in connection with an alleged scheme targeting seniors, the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution announced.

According to investigators, Ricardo Karns, who operated Karns Taxes & Investments, allegedly used his tax preparation business to defraud at least 21 victims, including 19 seniors.

Mr. Karns reportedly obtained personal identification information from nonclients and used it to open credit card accounts in their names. These cards were then purportedly used to simulate purchases of tax services at his business.

“This tax preparer stole personal information to defraud Florida seniors. He tried to launder his ill-gotten gains, funneling the stolen funds through his tax business—where he spent countless hours executing his illegal scheme,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody.

“Now, my statewide prosecutors will make sure he pays for his crimes with an extended stay at a taxpayer-funded facility.”

The investigation by the Broward Sheriff’s Office reportedly found that Karns transferred funds from the fraudulent transactions to a separate account or withdrew them in cash. Additionally, some of the fraudulently obtained credit cards reportedly showed transactions conducted at businesses owned by Mr. Karns’ associates.

Karns faces multiple charges, including one count of organized scheme to defraud, two counts of money laundering, 16 counts of criminal use of personal identification information, 19 counts of grand theft of a person 65 years or older, and three counts of grand theft.

Statewide Prosecutors Sophia Birriel-Sanchez and Jonathan Bridges from the Office of Statewide Prosecution will handle the case.