Michelle Ann Gilson, Tax Evasion, Connecticut 2023

Grimy Times Investigates: Tax Evasion in Connecticut

Guilford business owner MICHELLE ANN GILSON, 38, of Guilford, has pleaded guilty to a federal tax offense stemming from her failure to pay business payroll taxes, according to U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery and Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in New England, Harry T. Chavis, Jr.

As co-owner and co-operator of B&M Package Solutions, Inc. and former owner and operator of Epic Empirez, Inc., both Guilford-based package delivery companies, Gilson was responsible for company books, payroll, and invoices, as well as collecting and paying over certain federal taxes from her employees, namely federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contribution Act (“FICA”) taxes, which include Medicare and Social Security taxes. However, an investigation revealed that she failed to report employees’ federal income and FICA taxes and failed to pay over withheld amounts beginning in 2017.

Gilson pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to pay over withholding taxes, admitting that she failed to pay over the withheld employee taxes, as well as the employers’ share of FICA taxes, for multiple quarters during the 2017 through 2022 tax years. She has agreed to pay approximately $1,407,831 in restitution to the IRS.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena L. Coronado, and the matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. Judge Vernon D. Oliver scheduled sentencing for October 9, at which time Gilson faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. She is released on bond pending sentencing.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Gilson was responsible for company books, payroll, and invoices, as well as collecting and paying over certain federal taxes from her employees. Her failure to report employees’ federal income and FICA taxes and pay over withheld amounts has resulted in a significant restitution amount of approximately $1,407,831 to the IRS.

The investigation and prosecution of tax evasion cases are crucial in ensuring that businesses and individuals comply with tax laws and regulations. Tax evasion cases can have severe consequences, including fines and imprisonment. In this case, Gilson faces a maximum 5-year prison sentence and a significant restitution amount.

Grimy Times will continue to investigate and report on tax evasion cases in Connecticut, shedding light on the importance of tax compliance and the consequences of tax evasion.