The Minnesota Department of Revenue announced that the Otter Tail County Attorney's Office recently charged Richard Rapatt, of Menahga, with eight tax-related felonies.
Rapatt is charged with four counts of failing to file returns and four counts of failing to pay taxes.
According to the criminal complaint, Rapatt has a business, R&R Sheetrock. The business is not registered with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. He allegedly failed to file and pay his taxes for tax years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012. Rapatt owes the state more than $6,800 for these years. Additionally, he has an outstanding debt of more than $5,300 with the department.
Each felony charge carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Although most taxpayers comply with tax laws voluntarily, the Minnesota Department of Revenue takes enforcement action against noncompliant taxpayers to ensure tax laws are fairly administered.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Minnesota Department of Revenue has a 24-hour tip line for anyone who suspects a person or business is violating tax laws. That number is (800) 657-3500. Tipsters may remain anonymous and can also email the department at tax.fraud@state.mn.us . In 2014, 87 percent of the department's criminal case referrals came from citizen tips.
