The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Hubbard County Attorney’s Office recently charged Scott Allen Forbes, of Park Rapids, with one felony count of filing a false or fraudulent income tax return, five gross misdemeanor counts of failure to file individual income tax returns, six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to pay individual income tax, six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to file sales tax returns, and six gross misdemeanor counts of failure to pay sales tax.
According to the complaint, Forbes failed to file an income tax return from tax year 2018 through 2022 and failed to pay income for tax years 2017 through 2022. The complaint states that Forbes did file an income tax return in 2017, but bank records showed he filed the return fraudulently by claiming no taxable income. Forbes also allegedly failed to file sales tax returns or pay sales tax for his business, Affordable Tree Service. According to the complaint, Forbes owes over $62,000 in income and sales taxes, penalties, and interest.
Each tax-related felony charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. Each tax-related gross misdemeanor charge carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a $3,000 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.
