For immediate release: March 22, 2021

Contact: Don Gore don.gore@state.mn.us

 

Shoreview man charged with multiple tax crimes

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office recently charged Gerald Robert Auginash, of Shoreview, with four felony counts of failing to file income tax returns and four felony counts of failing to pay income tax.

According to the complaint, Mr. Auginash failed to file his state income tax returns for tax years 2016 through 2019, and failed to pay income tax for tax years 2016 through 2019. The complaint states that Mr. Auginash received enough income during those years acting as a personal caretaker to be required to file income tax returns and pay income tax in Minnesota. According to the complaint, Mr. Auginash owes over $41,000 in income tax.

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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