Man pleads guilty in theft of $700,000 in sales tax

Williamsville resident Michael Wolfberg, 60, has pleaded guilty to second-degree grand larceny.

The arraignment before State Supreme Court Justice Penny M. Wolfgang was held on April 27. He faces up to 15 years in prison at his sentencing on July 18.

Wolfberg, owner of Premium Auto Sales, 5139 Sheridan Drive, admitted to the theft of more than $700,000 in sales tax from March 2001 through November 2005. Approximately half, $365,000, would have been payable to Erie County.

The investigation was conducted by the Erie County District Attorney's office, the state Department of Taxation and Finance and Department of Motor Vehicles.

It is believed to be the largest sales tax case in Erie County history.

Upon sentencing, prosecutors will request restitution in the amount of $733,938.02 plus penalties and interest.