Coon Rapids man charged with multiple tax-related crimes 

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Anoka County Attorney’s Office recently charged Billy Felder, of Coon Rapids, with one felony count of preparing false or fraudulent property tax refund returns, one felony count of forgery, and two felony counts of identity theft. 

Between July 2020 and February 2025, the complaint states that Mr. Felder used forged documents and the identities of multiple individuals to file over 45 property tax refund returns, directing many of the resulting refunds to bank accounts he controlled. The complaint states that Revenue investigators determined that the fraudulent returns were filed in the names of 23 individuals, two of whom were determined to be deceased at the time of filing and another two who reported that they did not give their consent for the filings. Many of the individuals allegedly had the same last name as Mr. Felder and several were not residing in Minnesota during the tax years in question or had never resided in the state. 

The complaint states that investigators matched the handwriting on the fraudulent returns to Mr. Felder's handwriting on other documents that were seized during the execution of search warrant for his residence. Investigators allegedly found numerous correspondences with individuals regarding the scheme as well as banking information linking Mr. Felder to many of the fraudulent refunds.

Through his fraudulent actions, Mr. Felder allegedly stole more than $41,800 from the state of Minnesota. 

Each tax-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Each forgery-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. Each identity theft-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Although most taxpayers comply with tax laws voluntarily, the department takes enforcement action against noncompliant taxpayers to ensure that tax laws are administered fairly.

Many of the department’s criminal case referrals come from public tips. There is a 24-hour tip line for anyone who suspects that a person or business is violating Minnesota tax laws. Local callers may dial 651-297-5195 or call toll-free by dialing 1-800-657-3500. Tips can also be submitted to the department by email at tax.fraud@state.mn.us. Tipsters may choose to remain anonymous. 

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