Center City man charged with multiple tax crimes 

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Chisago County Attorney’s Office recently charged Travis John Burgess, of Center City, with five felony counts of failing to file individual income tax returns, five felony counts of willfully failing to pay income tax, and five felony counts of failing to file S Corporation tax returns.

The complaint states that Mr. Burgess failed to file individual income and S Corporation tax returns or pay income tax for tax years 2019 through 2023 despite earning enough taxable income through his business, Construction Aria, to be required to file and pay in Minnesota. The complaint alleges that Mr. Burgess has received over 65 letters and notices from the department notifying him of his obligation to file his returns and pay the taxes he owes. Mr. Burgess also has had numerous communications with the department regarding his tax situation and is aware of his tax obligations as the complaint states that he was convicted of failing to file and pay income taxes in 2011. When asked why he had not paid income taxes since 2014, Mr. Burgess allegedly told investigators that he was not required to pay Minnesota incomes taxes based on his interpretation of a section of federal tax code.

Mr. Burgess allegedly owes more than $71,000 in income 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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