Bayport man sentenced for theft by swindle and tax crimes 

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that a Ramsey County District Court judge recently sentenced Karl Evald Auleciems, of Bayport, after a jury convicted him on 16 felony counts stemming from tax and theft by swindle charges that were originally filed in August 2021. He was sentenced to 97 days in jail, 5 years supervised probation, and to pay restitution to his victims and the state. Mr. Auleciems was given credit for 45 days already served in jail and will finish the remainder of his jail sentence starting on July 1, 2024.

The original criminal complaint alleged that Mr. Auleciems failed to file sales tax returns and pay sales tax on transactions he made renting out properties for short-term vacation rentals. He also allegedly fraudulently filed individual income tax returns and failed to pay income tax on his actual earned income for multiple tax years. He was also charged with -- and eventually convicted of – theft by swindle for refusing to return security deposits to multiple renters. 

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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