Stephen Baldwin appeared in Rockland County Court on Friday, March 29 and he admitted that he didn’t pay the income taxes in 2008, 2009 and 2010. After pleading guilty to tax evasion, the actor was ordered to pay $400,000 (the tax, interest and penalty).

The judge noted that Baldwin did pay $100,000 so the total he owes is actually $300,000. The judge also said that Baldwin has to pay the debt within a year and if he does that the charge will be erased from his record. If he fails to pay the money back he might face the five-year probation sentence.  Russell Yankwitt, the actor’s lawyer, said that his client was “happy that he’s not going to jail.”

Stephen was arrested for tax evasion in December, but was released. The actor says it wasn’t his intention to avoid the taxes. He explained: “Unfortunately, I got some really bad suggestions and advice from lawyers and accountants.”

Be Sociable, Share!

•