Chanhassen man charged with multiple tax crimes
Chanhassen man charged with multiple tax crimes
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Carver County Attorney’s Office recently charged Paul Mark Carlson, of Chanhassen, with three felony counts of failing to file individual income tax returns, three felony counts of failing to pay income tax, and three felony counts of failing to file corporate franchise tax returns.
In February 2024, the complaint states that Mr. Carlson pled guilty to a tax-related felony stemming from similar charges filed in December 2022. As part of the plea agreement, Mr. Carlson was ordered to pay restitution. The complaint states that Mr. Carlson is the owner of Vic’s Blue Dog Restaurant, d/b/a Vic’s Bar & Grill, located in Victoria, MN. Mr. Carlson failed to file his individual income tax and S-Corporation tax returns for tax years 2021 through 2023, and he failed to pay income tax in those years. According to the complaint, Mr. Carlson told investigators that he did not think he had to file and pay taxes since he was already paying restitution for his prior criminal case. Mr. Carlson allegedly owes over $608,000 in tax, penalties, and interest.
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.
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