Criminal investigations actions, charges, and convictions
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) advises the media of cases of people, corporations, and trusts convicted in the courts for tax evasion or for failing to file income tax returns when required. The information released to the media is available to the public since it is derived strictly from court records and not from confidential information held by the CRA.
Why the CRA seeks publicity on criminal investigation cases
The vast majority of Canadians pay their taxes. In fairness to all those law-abiding citizens, the CRA conducts compliance programs to ensure the uniform application of the laws it administers.
The CRA seeks publicity on conviction in the case of tax evasion. It does this to maintain confidence in the integrity of the self-assessment system, and to increase compliance with the law through the deterrent effect of such publicity.
The CRA may also seek publicity at different stages of an investigation, for example when information relating to the laying of criminal charges becomes available to the public through court records, to warn Canadians of potential fraud schemes.
If you have information about a suspected violation of any tax law, please contact the CRA National Leads Centre.
The Voluntary Disclosures Program (VDP) promotes compliance with Canada’s tax laws by encouraging taxpayers to come forward to correct inaccurate or incomplete information and/or to disclose information that has not previously been reported to the CRA. Taxpayers may avoid penalties or prosecution if they make a valid disclosure before they become aware of any compliance action being taken by the CRA against them. These taxpayers will have to pay the taxes owing, plus interest.
For more information about the Criminal Investigations Program, go to The CRA's Criminal Investigations Program.
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