ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Scott County Attorney’s Office recently charged Shawn Joseph Blackburn, of Shakopee, with four felony counts of failing to file individual income tax returns, four felony counts of failing to pay income tax, and one felony count of filing a false or fraudulent individual income tax return.

The complaint alleges that department investigators found that Mr. Blackburn earned nearly $8 million dollars through his business, Blackburn Masonry LLC, but did not file income tax returns or pay income tax from 2017 through 2020. The complaint states that Mr. Blackburn did file a return in 2021 but underreported his income by more than $570,000. In an interview with investigators, Mr. Blackburn acknowledged that he knew he had to file his income tax returns but failed to do so. The complaint goes on to state that Mr. Blackburn claimed his failure to file returns and pay taxes was do to personal and financial difficulties. However, department investigators allegedly found that during the years he failed to file a return, he withdrew over $270,000 in cash from his business account and cashed out over $300,000 in stock investments, among other significant sources of income. 

Each tax-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Although most taxpayers comply with tax laws voluntarily, the department takes enforcement action against noncompliant taxpayers to ensure that tax laws are administered fairly.

Many of the department’s criminal case referrals come from public tips. There is a 24-hour tip line for anyone who suspects that a person or business is violating Minnesota tax laws. Local callers may dial 651-297-5195 or call toll-free by dialing 1-800-657-3500. Tips can also be submitted to the department by email at tax.fraud@state.mn.us. Tipsters may choose to remain anonymous. 

Get the latest news and updates from the Minnesota Department of Revenue by following the department on Facebook and Twitter or by signing up for our email subscription list.