HONOLULU REALTOR PLEADS "NO CONTEST" TO TAX CHARGES
On May 18, 2001, Caesar B. Buted, a self-employed loan solicitor and realtor pled "no contest" to not filing his annual general excise tax returns for the years 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, and 1999.
The change of plea was accepted by District Court Judge Tenny Tong and sentencing has been scheduled for July 6, 2001.
The penalties provided by law is a misdemeanor and upon conviction a fine of not more than $25,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year, or both for each year may be imposed.
Tax Director Okamura continues to encourage taxpayers to voluntarily file their tax returns. The department will generally not initiate a criminal investigation when taxpayers voluntarily come forward to report their failure to file or other omissions.
RELEASED: May 15, 2001
RADIO HAWAII, INC. AND OFFICER PLEADS "GUILTY" TO TAX CHARGES
On May 15, 2001, Radio Hawaii, Inc., and its officer, Barry F. Wagenvoord pled "guilty" to misdemeanor tax violations.
In a complaint filed in March 2001, Barry F. Wagenvoord was charged with four counts of failing to file the corporation's annual general excise tax returns for the years 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998. The corporation, Radio Hawaii, Inc., was also charged with four counts of failing to file its annual general excise tax returns for the years 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998.
District Court Judge Russell Nagata accepted the change of plea of "guilty" for Radio Hawaii, Inc., for failing to file its annual general excise tax returns for the years 1995 through 1998. Judge Nagata also accepted a plea of "guilty" from Barry F. Wagenvoord for his failure to file the corporation's annual general excise tax return for the years 1995 through 1998.
During the years 1995 through 1998, Radio Hawaii, Inc., had earned over $1.4 million dollars which was subject to the general excise tax. The taxes, penalties and interest totaled in excess of $87,000.00.
District Court Judge Nagata also abided by a plea agreement where Radio Hawaii, Inc., and Barry F. Wagenvoord both agreed to pay a fine of $2,500 for each count, thereby resulting in a fine of $10,000 against Radio Hawaii, Inc., and a fine of $10,000 against Barry F. Wagenvoord. Judge Nagata also granted a Deferred Acceptance of Guilty Plea for Barry F. Wagenvoord.
Tax Director Okamura continues to encourage taxpayers to voluntarily file their tax returns. The department will generally not initiate a criminal investigation when taxpayers voluntarily come forward to report their failure to file or other omissions.