John Revella, an attorney based in Walden, was charged on Mar. 25 with four counts of subscribing to false tax returns for the years 2019 through 2022. Revella surrendered and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court.
The case is significant as it highlights the importance of accurate tax reporting by professionals entrusted with upholding the law. Authorities allege that Revella underreported income from his solo law practice, which primarily handled real estate transactions.
“John Revella allegedly filed false tax returns that underreported income from his law practice,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “Cheating on your taxes is stealing from those who pay their fair share and from the public services that New Yorkers rely on. This Office will continue to pursue those who attempt to criminally shift their obligations onto honest taxpayers.” IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Harry T. Chavis, Jr., said, “When a licensed attorney with real knowledge of the law tries to hide his alleged misconduct, IRS‑CI is there to follow the money and bring the facts to light… Today’s indictment reflects the power of coordinated financial investigations and underscores IRS‑CI’s commitment to following the facts, uncovering the truth, and holding individuals accountable when they abuse the financial system for personal gain.”
According to allegations in the indictment, Revella deposited funds received through his legal work into an Interest on Lawyer Account (IOLA) rather than maintaining a separate operating account for his business. Between 2018 and 2022, he reportedly cashed about 1,700 checks totaling over $1.1 million but reported only between $22,700 and $30,750 annually as income during four consecutive years on his tax returns—failing to report more than $1 million in total income during this period and not paying over $380,000 in taxes.
Revella faces up to twelve years in prison if convicted; however, any sentencing will be determined by a judge according to congressional guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Clayton praised both Special Agents of his office and IRS-CI for their investigative work leading up to these charges.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James McMahon of the White Plains Division. Authorities emphasize that all charges are accusations at this stage; Revella remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
