There’s a famous quote related to the fact that there are two certainties in life, death and taxes. Let’s face it; no one enjoys parting with their hard-earned income and paying taxes. Yet, every year when April 15 rolls around, people in the U.S. dutifully file their income taxes and write checks to the Internal Revenue Service.
To make matters worse, the actual process of attempting to complete one’s taxes can be arduous and stressful. Tax codes, rules and laws are complicated and frequently change. It’s no wonder, therefore, that many taxpayers err when completing tax-related documents. This is often especially true of small business owners who must wear many hats and often deal in cash.
A 46-year-old Eagan man who previously owned a popular Minneapolis restaurant is facing criminal charges related to tax fraud and tax evasion. The IRS contends the local businessman intentionally underreported restaurant sales by “more than $1 million, and underpaid tax by $100,000.”
He is currently facing 68 criminal counts related to tax crimes and, if convicted, would likely face harsh penalties. Criminal charges related to tax crimes are serious and the government aggressively pursues and prosecutes individuals believed to have committed tax evasion or tax fraud. In many cases, individuals found guilty of tax-related crimes are forced to pay hefty fines and serve time in prison.
With so much at stake, Minnesota residents who are facing an IRS investigation or criminal charges would be wise to retain a criminal defense attorney. An attorney who has experience defending against criminal tax charges can answer questions, provide advice and aggressively defend against evidence and allegations of any wrongdoing.
Source: WCCO, “Owner Of Shuttered Mpls. Restaurant Charged With Tax Fraud,” Oct. 15, 2014