Tax Watchdog

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Posted by Robert Snell (The Detroit News) on Mon, Jul 27, 2009 at 1:25 PM

No 'Rush' to pay for Hollywood star

Actor Chris Tucker is famous for his high-pitched voice, so it's easy to imagine the shriek he may have made after the state of California slapped the "Rush Hour" star with a $3.6 million tax lien last month.

The 37-year-old Atlanta native might have become rich ($20 million per flick) and famous thanks to the "Rush Hour" franchise, but he launched his movie career in a less critically-acclaimed franchise playing third banana to Kid 'n Play in "House Party 3."

Here's Tucker in that turkey:

What's owed:

The state of California filed a $3,594,409 lien against Tucker on June 24 in Sacramento County Court. According to the lien, he owes state taxes for the years 2001-02 and 2004-07.

His side:

Tucker's publicist did not return e-mails or phone calls seeking comment.

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About this Weblog

Who owes taxes in Metro Detroit

Robert Snell is a Detroit News business reporter. He focuses on state and federal tax liens and, based on public records, interviews and Detroit News archives, identifies those who don't pay income, business and property taxes. He can be reached at rsnell@detnews.com or (313) 222-2028.

Why we focus on unpaid taxes

Every year, about $345 billion in federal taxes are either late or unpaid, according to the IRS, ripping open holes in budgets and shortchanging schools and public safety. That forces taxpayers to cough up more than their fair share, tax experts say. About $2.5 billion went uncollected in Michigan between 2000 and 2006.

Liens are filed when taxpayers ignore government pleas for payment. Tax liens are like tar. They stick to everything - homes, cars and income. According to the IRS, liens give the government a legal claim to a person's or company's property. Liens serve as security or payment for the tax debt and a red flag to creditors.

There are a variety of reasons people don't pay. Some can't afford to and some refuse while others miscalculate or receive bad advice. Unpaid taxes can lead to prison - just ask actor Wesley Snipes.

This blog will focus on state and federal liens and identify those who don't pay income, business and property taxes. We will gather our information from public records, interviews and Detroit News archives.