On Wednesday, September 24, Mike “the Situation” Sorrentino of the MTV show “Jersey Shore,” appeared in court with his brother Marc to plead not guilty of federal tax related charges.
The Sorrentinos were charged with multiple counts: conspiracy to defraud the US, filing false tax returns, and failing to file a tax return, resulting in a failure to pay for taxes on $8.9 million of income. The brothers allegedly claimed millions in personal and business expenses including clothing, vehicles, and grooming. The charges stem from income derived over the years 2010-2012, during which the show “Jersey Shore” was active.
The maximum penalty the brothers face is five years in prison for the conspiracy charge. Mike Sorrentino was also in court in July this year for an alleged assault. There, he agreed to undergo anger management therapy, and his case was adjourned for 12 weeks.
The two brothers surrendered this past Wednesday to US marshals and IRS special agents, and were indicted in court. After pleading not guilty, they were each released on a $250,000 bond. Neither “the Situation” nor his brother commented on the matter.