Minneapolis man charged with multiple tax crimes

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office recently charged John Edward Parker, of Minneapolis, with six felony counts of failing to file individual income tax returns and three felony counts of failing to pay income tax.

According to the complaint, Mr. Parker failed to file his state individual income tax returns from 2012 through 2017 and failed to pay income tax in 2015, 2016, and 2017. The complaint states that Mr. Parker had taxable income for these tax years, and willfully failed to file and pay his state income tax. Department investigators determined that Mr. Parker earned enough income through his real estate job and knew of his obligation to file and pay state income tax based on his previous tax return filings and contact with the department. According to the complaint, Mr. Parker owes over $34,000 in unpaid income tax.

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.

Many of the department’s criminal case referrals come from public tips. The Minnesota Department of Revenue has 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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