More rappers in trouble, and Wu-Tang man Method Man has been charged with tax evasion by the New York authorities relating to unpaid personal income tax from 2004 to 2007, which totals over thirty grand when fees and penalties are taken into account. He faces both misdemeanour charges for failing to pay taxes, and felony charges for failing to file tax returns. Local media say that the city's prosecutors want to make an example of the rapper, real name Clifford Smith, and could push for a custodial sentence.
Talking tough on the issue, District Attorney Daniel Donovan told reporters: "Taxes are the burden that all citizens share in a civil society, whether you are an 'average Joe' on the street or a high-profile rap artist. Because of the alleged action of people like Mr Smith, law abiding citizens face higher taxes and reduced government services. Failure to properly report and pay your taxes is a crime against all citizens and will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted".
It's not Smith's first run in with tax officials. Earlier this year his car was repossessed by authorities amid reports he owed the government over fifty grand in back taxes. The rapper is due back in court on 9 Dec to face the latest charges.