Gerard Artz, Tax Evasion, New Jersey 2024

Tax Cheat Admits to Failing to Collect and Pay Employee Taxes

TRENTON, N.J. - In a shocking turn of events, Gerard Artz, a 44-year-old resident of Brick, New Jersey, has pleaded guilty to failing to collect and pay over employee taxes. According to the U.S. Attorney's office, Artz's construction company withheld employment taxes from employee paychecks but failed to remit those taxes to the IRS.

The scheme, which began around 2016 and continued until 2020, resulted in a staggering $937,943 in unpaid employee taxes. Artz's company, which operated in both Brick, New Jersey, and New York City, was the epicenter of this tax evasion scheme.

Gerard Artz, 44, of Brick, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court to one count of failure to collect and pay over taxes. This charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

As part of his plea agreement, Artz has agreed to pay the government restitution of $937,943. Sentencing is scheduled for February 5, 2024. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Suggs of the Criminal Division in Trenton. This case highlights the importance of tax compliance and the severe consequences of failing to pay employee taxes.

Gerard Artz, the owner of a Brick construction business, has admitted to a serious crime. His failure to collect and pay over employee taxes has resulted in a significant financial burden on his company and its employees. As the case moves forward, it remains to be seen what the full extent of Artz's punishment will be.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/pr/owner-brick-construction-business-admits-failure-collect-and-pay-over-taxes