Two similar cases made the news on Wednesday; two government officials involved in tax trouble because of other crimes they are alleged to have committed.
First, from Huntsville, Alabama, a former director at the Redstone Arsenal is accused of taking kickbacks and has been charged with fraud, bribery, and tax evasion. Michael Cantrell is charged with taking $1.6 million in kickbacks according to US Attorney Alice Martin. “Cantrell corrupted his leadership position by taking $1.6 million in kickbacks to allow certain contractors to perpetrate a massive procurement fraud scheme,” according to Ms. Martin.
According to the AP report, Ms. Martin has said that Mr. Cantrell is cooperating with the investigation and that further arrests are expected. Mr. Cantrell faces one count of conspiracy to commit bribery, two counts of bribery and one count of personal income tax evasion. He faces up to 40 years at ClubFed plus fines and possible disgorgement of kickback proceeds.
Meanwhile, from Madison, Wisconsin comes the story of former Overture Center Director Robert D’Angelo. Mr. D’Angelo is accused of 15 charges of mail fraud, 15 charges of wire fraud, four charges of money laundering, and four charges of tax fraud. Trial has been set for February.
Mr. D’Angelo ran two side businesses while heading the Overture Center for the City of Madison. He allegedly ran the side businesses out of city offices (which would violate city policies), and allegedly ordered city employees to help him with his businesses. Additionally, he allegedly used the city’s telecommunications equipment in his businesses, and allegedly had city employees send emails and faxes for his side businesses.
Adding potential insult to injury, Mr. D’Angelo also allegedly didn’t report any of the income from his side businesses on his tax return (which would be tax fraud, if proven). Needless to say, he’s looking at a lengthy stay at ClubFed if he’s found guilty.
Here in Orange County we have our own fraud/kickback case making news. Sheriff Mike Carona has been accused of taking bribes and allegedly intimidating witnesses. No tax charges, though…at least for now.