Canton man charged with multiple tax crimes

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Fillmore County Attorney’s Office recently charged Ted John Lord, of Canton, with five felony counts of failing to file individual income tax returns and five felony counts of willfully failing to pay income tax.

The complaint states that Mr. Lord failed to file individual income tax returns or pay income tax for tax years 2020 through 2024 despite earning taxable income through his business, Trukk Scan Support Services LLC. Mr. Lord registered his business and was assigned a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) which, according to the complaint, is evidence that he was aware of his obligation to file tax returns and pay his taxes. Additionally, according to the complaint, Mr. Lord admitted to investigators that he was aware that he had not filed his tax returns. Mr. Lord failed to file returns reporting over $3.5 million and allegedly owes more than $600,000 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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