Michael Robert Jett, an Independence, Missouri resident, was sentenced on Mar. 18 in federal court for tax evasion. U.S. District Court Judge Douglas Harpool sentenced Jett, age 60, to 23 months in prison and three years of post-release supervision. He was also ordered to pay $361,078.81 in restitution for failing to pay income taxes owed to the United States and the State of Missouri.
The sentencing highlights the consequences individuals face when they do not comply with tax laws. The case underscores efforts by federal authorities to ensure that all taxpayers meet their obligations.
Jett worked as a salesperson for a time share company and falsely claimed exemption from both federal and state income taxes. As a result, his employer did not withhold any taxes from his wages. Over six years, from 2017 through 2022, Jett either refused to pay his annual income taxes or submitted false documents in an attempt to avoid payment. He was ordered to pay $330,649.43 in restitution to the United States government and $30,429.38 to the State of Missouri.
“Those who violate our tax laws cause honest taxpayers to lose faith that the system is fair,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation Assistant Special Agent in Charge Melissa McFadden. “For that reason, IRS-CI partners with the US Attorney’s Office to investigate and prosecute those who willfully choose tax evasion. Falsifying documents to avoid paying taxes is stealing, and offenders must be held accountable.”
“This time of year is a good reminder to all taxpayers of the consequences of not timely and accurately paying your fair share,” said U.S. Attorney R. Matthew Price. “You will be prosecuted and face the loss of your freedom if you do not.”
The U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri supports community outreach programs addressing issues such as violent crime and drug trafficking according to its official website. The office has locations in Kansas City, Jefferson City, and Springfield according to its official website, operates under the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website, handles federal prosecutions across 66 counties in western Missouri according to its official website, covers a jurisdiction stretching from Iowa’s border southward into Arkansas and eastward halfway across Missouri according to its official website, and collaborates with law enforcement at multiple levels according to its official website.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney prosecuted this case following an investigation by Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.
