MN Man Asked IRS For $350M, Bought $2.6M Mansion: Feds

Prosecutors say Caesar Wilson filed and helped others file false tax returns that led to more than $19 million in payouts.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Federal prosecutors say a 37-year-old Minnesota man named Caesar M. Wilson personally filed tax returns falsely requesting more than $90 million in refunds and conspired with others to submit additional false returns seeking more than $210 million, resulting in the U.S. Treasury paying out over $19 million in undeserved refunds. Wilson allegedly used the fraudulent funds to purchase a $2.6 million mansion in Prior Lake, invest in cryptocurrency and other projects, and cover personal expenses.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of tax fraud and the significant financial impact it can have on government coffers. It also sheds light on the tactics used by some individuals, such as those associated with the sovereign citizen movement, to try to unlawfully avoid paying taxes.

The details

According to the indictment, Wilson made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court after being charged with conspiracy to file false claims for tax refunds, filing a false claim for a tax refund, money laundering, and bank fraud. Prosecutors allege the total fraudulent claims exceeded $350 million. Wilson is also accused of advising a group of individuals associated with the sovereign citizen movement on trusts and tax filings, providing forms and documents used in the scheme.

  • The alleged conduct spans from 2022 to 2023.
  • Wilson was released on an unsecured bond pending further court proceedings.

The players

Caesar M. Wilson

A 37-year-old Minnesota man who is accused of personally filing tax returns falsely requesting more than $90 million in refunds and conspiring with others to submit additional false returns seeking more than $210 million.

Daniel N. Rosen

A federal prosecutor who stated that "Individuals who file false claims for tax refunds and who conspire with others to violate the laws of the United States must be held accountable for their criminal conduct."

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What they’re saying

“Individuals who file false claims for tax refunds and who conspire with others to violate the laws of the United States must be held accountable for their criminal conduct.”

— Daniel N. Rosen

What’s next

The case is being investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew D. Forbes and Matthew D. Evans are prosecuting the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of tax fraud and the significant financial impact it can have on government coffers. It also demonstrates the tactics used by some individuals, such as those associated with the sovereign citizen movement, to try to unlawfully avoid paying taxes, and the importance of holding those who engage in such criminal conduct accountable.