Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Apr. 17 that Saran Puribhat, the former owner of Zapp Thai Restaurant Inc. in Edwardsville, has been charged with allegedly defrauding Illinois out of more than $100,000 in sales tax revenue.
The case highlights the importance of accurate sales tax reporting for funding public services throughout Illinois. According to the Attorney General’s office, Puribhat faces two counts of theft of government property exceeding $100,000—Class X felonies punishable by up to 30 years in prison—one count of sales tax evasion over $100,000—a Class 1 felony—and multiple other felony charges related to fraudulent filings and wire fraud. Sentencing will be determined by the court. Puribhat’s next court date is scheduled for May 11.
“Individuals who falsify sales taxes are not just stealing from the state; they are stealing from the residents who rely on the important programs and services funded by Illinois tax revenue,” Raoul said. “I appreciate the continued collaboration with the Illinois Department of Revenue as we seek to hold these individuals accountable.”
The Attorney General’s office alleges that between February 2013 and February 2024, Puribhat owned and operated Zapp Thai Restaurant and reported false monthly sales totals during his last four years as owner. This allegedly resulted in at least $103,607 lost to state coffers due to underreported sales taxes.
The prosecution follows an investigation conducted by the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR). IDOR Director David Harris said, “Sales tax revenue is essential to funding critical public services across Illinois, and businesses have a clear responsibility to report and remit those funds accurately… The Illinois Department of Revenue is committed to enforcing compliance and will continue working with the Attorney General to hold those accountable who attempt to evade their obligations.”
The public is reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
According to its official website, the Illinois Attorney General advocates for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, and seniors; handles thousands of consumer complaints each year; aims to protect consumers while promoting safer communities; extends advocacy efforts statewide; partners with law enforcement agencies; and offers complaint filing services for consumer fraud or civil rights issues.
