Montana Man Files False Income Tax Returns Using Personal Information Obtained from Craigslist

Steven D. Pjevach, former resident of Nevada and Montana pleaded guilty to one count of corruptly interfering with the administration of the internal revenue laws.

Using personal information he obtained by placing false help wanted ads on Craigslist, including names and social security numbers, Pjevach filed false and fraudulent income tax returns.  Pjevach also opened up bank accounts in the individual’s names in order to receive the fraudulent tax refunds. When questioned by the individuals, Pjevach provided false information on why he had opened up those accounts, and even told one person just to disregard any correspondence from the bank.  Pjevach also created false Forms W-2, which he attached to the returns to deceive the IRS.

Sentencing is scheduled for March, 2017, where Pjevach faces a statutory maximum sentence of three years in prison, a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties.