April 29, 2004

PRESS RELEASE

SHERBORN MAN CONVICTED BY JURY OF TAX EVASION

Boston, MA... A Sherborn man was convicted yesterday by a trial jury of federal income tax evasion.

United States Attorney Michael J. Sullivan and Joseph A. Galasso, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, announced today that JOHN J. LAVOIE, age 57, of Sherborn, Massachusetts, was convicted by a jury sitting before U.S. District Judge Joseph L. Tauro of federal income tax evasion.

The evidence presented at trial showed that LAVOIE, a self-employed heating and air conditioning contractor, evaded federal income taxes by filing false U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns (Forms 1040s) with the IRS for the years 1990, 1991, and 1992. The evidence showed that LAVOIE provided his accountant with a false summary sheet of business activity, which was used to prepare the tax returns. LAVOIE failed to report approximately one-half of his gross business receipts, which resulted in an additional tax due and owing to the United States of approximately $18,000.

Judge Tauro scheduled sentencing for July 21, 2004. LAVOIE faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. In addition to the criminal penalties, LAVOIE is subject to substantial civil sanctions, including the payment of back taxes, interest, and penalties.

The case was investigated by Special Agents of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Hodgens, Jr., Chief of Sullivan's Worcester Office.

Press Contact: Samantha Martin, (617) 748-3139