Snipes Headed For The Slammer

The taxman cometh for actor Wesley Snipes, and the outcome isn’t good.

After being found guilty back on February 1st of three counts of willingly failing to submit his income taxes, the judge threw the book at him – charging Snipes with the maximum sentence, which was one year behind bars on each charge. Snipes will have to serve the time consecutively – resulting in a sentence of three years in prison.

Although Snipes read a statement before he was charged stating “I’m very sorry for my mistakes,” at no time did the word “taxes” cross his lips. “I am an idealistic, naive, passionate, truth-seeking, spiritually motivated artist, unschooled in the science of law and finance," he added.

Snipes also owes and must pay $17 million in back taxes, $5 million of which he attempted to present to the court before his sentence was handed down. Although the judge could not take the money, an IRS representative was on hand to accept the payment.

Snipes legal team has stated they are planning to appeal. Wesley is currently free on bond until summoned to surrender to the authorities.