DA Says Payroll Firm Stole Money From Haverhill Business When it Failed to Make Tax Payments

Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett.

A Haverhill business is one of at least two on the hook for payroll taxes after, the Essex County district attorney charges, a Newburyport-based payroll firm stole the money.

District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett said Thursday his office sought and received a criminal complaint against 60-year-old Patricia Lindau who operated Northeast Abacus until recently. The DA launched an investigation after receiving complaints from two small businesses—in Haverhill and Danvers—that she stole an estimated $60,300 from them when she failed to pay their state taxes. Blodgett did not name the businesses.

Lindau of Newburgh, Maine, was charged with two counts larceny and two counts of embezzlement by tax preparer. She is expected to be arraigned on July 21 in Newburyport District Court.

Earlier, businesses outside of the area reported similar losses at the hands of Northeast Abacus.

Blodgett’s office said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. Larceny carries a maximum penalty of five years in state prison and embezzlement carries a maximum penalty of three years in state prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

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