Florida CPA Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

A federal court ordered a Florida accountant to serve 18 months in prison for concealing millions in assets from the IRS.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Financial Crime

Florida CPA Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

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A Florida CPA received an 18-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to tax evasion. The defendant was also ordered to pay over $2.3 million in restitution for unpaid taxes.

Why it matters

The case highlights the severity of federal tax evasion charges and the government's pursuit of individuals who attempt to obscure assets. Prosecutors successfully demonstrated that the defendant used shell entities and third-party accounts to avoid his tax obligations.

A federal judge sentenced the defendant to 18 months in prison following his guilty plea for tax evasion. The court also mandated total restitution of $2,343,615.01 for the evaded taxes.

The players

Ronald St. Clair

He is a Florida-based certified public accountant who was convicted of tax evasion for hiding millions in assets from federal authorities.

IRS

This federal agency is responsible for the collection of taxes and the enforcement of the Internal Revenue Code throughout the United States.

The details

Ronald St. Clair accumulated tax debts between 2011 and 2017 before attempting to hide his assets from the IRS. He utilized real estate transfers and business entities, along with third-party bank accounts, to conceal his control over funds while negotiating a payment plan.

The tax debts accumulated by St. Clair occurred between 2011 and 2017.
The IRS notified the defendant of its intent to levy assets in 2020.
The court sentenced St. Clair to 18 months in prison on October 26, 2026.

Legal Context

This case follows standard federal prosecution protocols for tax evasion under the Internal Revenue Code. It reflects the ongoing efforts by the DOJ and IRS to prosecute complex financial fraud involving the layering of shell entities to hide assets.

This case serves as a reminder of the federal government's authority to levy assets when tax obligations remain unpaid. Residents should ensure full disclosure of financial assets during any official tax settlement process to avoid potential criminal charges.

The takeaway

Maintaining transparent financial records and honest communication with tax authorities is critical to avoiding severe legal consequences. Attempting to hide assets through third parties is a federal offense that can lead to significant prison time and financial liability.