Couple enters guilty pleas in federal tax evasion case

Anyone who runs a business in Missouri or other areas of the country is likely aware of how difficult it can be. This can be especially true for smaller businesses in which the owner is left to perform many roles — many of which he or she has little experience. Unfortunately, a couple in another state who were the subject of federal tax evasion allegations recently pleaded guilty to the charges they were facing.

The case involves a couple who owned the car washing businesses Splash Car Wash and Pro Sweep Plus. According to federal law enforcement officers, they skimmed money from their business and did not report income on their returns. Reports claim that although they earned more than $5 million in receipts from 2011 to 2013, they only paid just over $10,000 in taxes.

They were also accused of claiming certain personal expenses as business expenses. They recently pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to defraud the United States as part of a plea agreement and are set to be sentenced later this year where they face a mandatory five year sentence. Their accountant is also facing charges as law enforcement officers believe that he helped them. Reports indicate that the couple no longer own those businesses.

Unfortunately, accusations of tax evasion are serious, and the cases can be complicated. As such, many people in Missouri and across the country who are embroiled in a such a case often feel overwhelmed by their circumstances. Fortunately, there are experienced criminal defense attorneys who are available to help,including providing advice on the pros and cons of accepting a plea agreement.