BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. – The Special Investigations Section of the Tennessee Department of Revenue has conducted an investigation resulting in the indictment of John Saunders. Special agents from the department arrested Saunders on one count of tax evasion, and he was subsequently booked into the Sullivan County jail with bond set at $5,000.
“The Department of Revenue strives to promote voluntary compliance of Tennessee’s tax laws by educating taxpayers and pursuing criminal sanctions for accountability of fraudulent actors,” said Revenue Commissioner David Gerregano. “This arrest underscores the department’s efforts to ensure fair administration of Tennessee’s tax laws.”
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If convicted, Saunders could face a maximum sentence of two years in the state penitentiary and a fine of up to $3,000.
The department is working on the criminal case in cooperation with District Attorney Barry Staubus’ office. Citizens who suspect violations of Tennessee’s revenue laws are encouraged to call the toll-free tax fraud hotline at (800) FRAUDTX (372-8389).
The Tennessee Department of Revenue is responsible for administering state tax laws and motor vehicle title and registration laws, as well as collecting associated taxes and fees. The department collects approximately 87 percent of the total state revenue. In the 2023 fiscal year, it collected nearly $22 billion in state taxes and fees and over $4.7 billion in taxes and fees for local governments. To learn more about the department, visit www.tn.gov/revenue.
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Free Webinar on 2024 Legislative Tax Updates
The Department of Revenue will host a free webinar on July 30 at 9 am Central time to discuss the latest tax-related legislative changes from the 2024 session. This event is part of a series of free public webinars offered by the department.