Roger B. Handberg, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
A federal grand jury in Jacksonville, Florida, has indicted Phillip Mak, a local businessman, on charges of tax evasion, failing to file tax returns, and not paying taxes. The indictment alleges that Mak earned approximately $10.3 million between 2008 and 2020 but did not pay federal taxes during this period. Except for two years, he allegedly failed to file tax returns as well.
The IRS reportedly assessed around $1.9 million in outstanding taxes, penalties, and interest against Mak for the tax years spanning from 2008 to 2020. The indictment further claims that Mak attempted to conceal his assets by transferring $1 million in cash into his domestic partner's bank accounts. Additionally, after an interview with IRS investigators, he is alleged to have transferred ownership of his home to his domestic partner’s trust and created a nominee entity where he deposited income.
Mak is accused of causing a tax loss exceeding $1.92 million to the IRS. If found guilty, he could face up to five years in prison for tax evasion and one year each for failing to file a return or pay taxes. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The announcement was made by Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division along with U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida.
The case is under investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation with Trial Attorneys Isaiah Boyd and Michael Jones from the Tax Division prosecuting alongside Assistant U.S. Attorney John Cannizzaro for the Middle District of Florida.
It is important to note that an indictment represents allegations only; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.