Former Eagles wide receiver Freddie Mitchell faces up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to his role in a tax-fraud scheme.
Mitchell pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to file a false claim. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Mitchell and two others filed false tax returns on behalf of another athlete, identified only with the initials “A.G.” The plan was devised to receive a larger refund from the IRS and was done without the other athlete’s knowledge. Mitchell’s role was to recruit athletes and the two others filed the returns while also charging for their services as tax preparers.
The Orlando Sentinel reports that Mitchell told the judge in the case that “he knew fraud was being committed and yet he did not stop the illegal activities or report it to law enforcement” as part of his guilty plea.