Akron tax preparer accused of stealing $700K in fraud

Mustafa Diab, the owner of Tax Pro$ in Akron, is on trial for allegedly stealing $700,000 in COVID-19 relief funds. Prosecutors accuse him of taking advantage of vulnerable clients who lost jobs during the pandemic. They say he used their personal information without consent to file false applications for government aid. The trial began in federal court in Cleveland, where Assistant U.S. Attorney Brenna Fasko described Diab's actions as "predatory." Fasko stated that Diab lied about clients’ incomes and family details on applications. He then set up bank accounts to receive the money. The government's relief programs were intended to help those in need, but prosecutors argue Diab exploited the situation for personal gain. Diab faces 47 charges, including conspiracy and wire fraud. His wife, Elizabeth Robinson, has already pleaded guilty to similar charges and could face several years in prison. The scheme is said to have occurred between June 2020 and August 2021 while Diab was promoting himself as an expert in COVID-19 relief. Prosecutors claim Diab created fake businesses to obtain loans and inflated information about clients to secure unemployment benefits. Though he paid some clients a portion of the funds, he allegedly withdrew money quickly for personal expenses like buying cars, an apartment complex, and expensive trips abroad. Diab’s defense attorney argues he did not knowingly commit fraud and that he relied on the information provided by his clients. The attorney contends that Diab thought he was entitled to the money for his services. The trial may continue into next week as the court hears more evidence.