Numerous People Face Penalties For Alleged White-Collar Crime In Bergen County

The term “white-collar crime” derives from the class divisions of early 1900s America, at a time when blue-collar workers were of notably lower status than their white-collar counterparts. However, white-collar crime today can be committed by virtually anyone, from low-income workers to high-ranking politicians. Recently, several people have faced consequences for white-collar crime in Bergen County.

Bergen County Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison 

In early May of 2025, a tax preparer in Bergen County was sentenced to three years in prison for tax evasion and falsified tax returns. The 49-year-old woman admitted to the crimes in federal court and agreed to pay back over $1 million in restitution. Specifically, she knowingly inflated expenses and itemized deductions. This situation highlights the fact that something as simple as preparing your taxes in the wrong way can send you to prison.

Bergen County Fire Inspector Faces Record-Tampering Charges 

Also in May, a fire inspector in Bergen County was accused of tampering with public records and falsifying documents. On at least one occasion, this individual completed a completely fake Fire Inspection Report before issuing a fraudulent Fire Inspection Certificate. The authorities did not reveal a possible motive for this alleged behavior.

Non-Profit Volunteer Accused of Stealing $36,000 

Another recent incident in Bergen County involved a 59-year-old volunteer who allegedly stole $36,000 from a food pantry. In 2022, she was acting as the non-profit’s director. Authorities say that she forged checks in order to steal from the organization, faking signatures in the process.

Bergen County Transit Worker Accused of Stealing $700,000 

Also in May, a Bergen County transit worker was accused of stealing $700,000 worth of agency phones. The worker then allegedly sold these phones for a profit. Although this individual was authorized to purchase phones for NJ Transit employees, he had no authority to sell them on the black market. If convicted, he could spend more than a decade behind bars.

Bergen County Man Accused of Spending Covid-19 Loans on Luxury Goods 

In late May, another Bergen County man was accused of Covid-19 loan fraud. Authorities say that he spent the $150,000 loan on luxury goods and trips to Vegas. Like many who committed similar loan frauds, this individual is accused of falsely reporting the number of his employees and his gross revenue. He also allegedly submitted false federal tax returns to justify the loans. A judge sentenced him to 20 months in prison for this white-collar crime.

Can a Bergen County Defense Attorney Help With White-Collar Crime Allegations? 

If you face allegations of white-collar crime, you might want to speak with an experienced Bergen County criminal defense attorney. While white-collar crime might be non-violent, the consequences can be quite serious. A legal professional may be able to help you avoid these penalties with various defense strategies. Contact Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law for more information.

Sources: 

nj1015.com/hackensack-tax-preparer-sentenced-fraud/

tapinto.net/towns/paramus/sections/bergen-county-news/articles/fire-inspector-charged-with-record-tampering-bergen-county-prosecutor-a65df728-8e58-4919-bfb3-84899d7e01f5

nj1015.com/former-nj-food-pantry-volunteer-charged-with-36k-theft/

patch.com/new-jersey/ridgewood/bergen-county-man-stole-sold-700k-nj-transit-phones-ag

nj.com/bergen/2025/05/nj-man-sentenced-for-blowing-150k-in-covid-19-loans-on-vegas-and-versace.html