Khristine Harper, a 41-year-old resident of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted on federal charges related to a fraudulent tax return scheme. The indictment includes 20 counts of aiding or assisting in the preparation of false tax returns and one count of identity theft. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
Harper’s arraignment took place on July 21, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida.
If found guilty, Harper could face up to 65 years in prison.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes is prosecuting the case.
It is important to note that an indictment is an allegation made by a grand jury and does not constitute evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a fair trial.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices serving as principal litigators under the Attorney General’s direction. Public court documents can be accessed online via the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. More information about this office can be found at http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
