IRS Launches Criminal Investigation into Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archwell Foundation

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has initiated a criminal inquiry into the activities of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Archwell Foundation following the discovery of potential inaccuracies and irregularities in their tax filings, as reported by the Daily Mail.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may potentially face legal repercussions including arrest, penalties, and even incarceration if found culpable of tax evasion.

Sources have revealed that the IRS unearthed discrepancies within the operations of the Archwell Foundation, a charitable organization established by Harry and Meghan in 2020.

The foundation purportedly claimed to dedicate a mere hour per week towards its endeavors in 2021, despite amassing over $13 million in donations.

Furthermore, the IRS noted disbursements totaling $163,085 in salaries, with $59,846 allocated to CEO James Holt, a confidant and former spokesperson of the royal couple.

Allegations also suggest that the couple may have exaggerated expenses and misrepresented personal expenditures, including security, travel, and lifestyle costs, as charitable contributions.

In response to these findings, the IRS has issued a subpoena demanding access to the financial records, bank statements, and correspondences of the Archwell Foundation.

Additionally, donors associated with the foundation have been contacted to validate their contributions and furnish supporting documentation.

The IRS has cautioned that individuals implicated in the alleged tax fraud scheme could face legal consequences.

A former IRS official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the gravity of the situation faced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, highlighting the potential severity of penalties should they be convicted.

Tax fraud is a federal offense carrying a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000 per charge.

The couple could potentially face multiple counts of tax fraud depending on the scale of financial misconduct and deceit perpetrated.

Aside from criminal liabilities, Harry and Meghan may also be subject to civil penalties encompassing back taxes, interest payments, and fines, potentially amounting to substantial sums.

Furthermore, there exists a risk of losing their tax-exempt status and enduring reputational damage as philanthropic figures.

The former IRS official underscored the high-profile nature of the case, indicating the agency's intent to hold accountable even prominent individuals for tax transgressions.

The IRS's stance on tax compliance, particularly concerning celebrities and public figures, was delineated as stringent and unwavering.

The agency aims to convey a resolute message that adherence to tax laws is imperative for all individuals, irrespective of stature or renown.

Given Prince Harry and Meghan's polarizing public image and contentious actions, the IRS is purportedly keen on demonstrating the consequences of tax noncompliance and upholding the principle of equitable tax contributions.