Chicago rapper Carl Mitchell, widely known as Twista, has pleaded guilty to five counts of willfully failing to pay his federal income taxes, a charge that carries a potential prison sentence of up to five years. Mitchell, who owes more than $440,000 in back taxes, is scheduled for sentencing on Oct. 22.
The IRS Criminal Investigations division stated that Mitchell failed to pay income tax for the years 2019 through 2023. His income during this period was generated from performances, album sales, streaming, and royalties.
According to the IRS, despite receiving warnings from both the tax agency and his own accountants regarding his outstanding tax debts, Mitchell reportedly arranged with a third-party company to receive advances on future royalties. The agency alleges this was done with the knowledge that these funds would be beyond the IRS's ability to levy.
Mitchell also has a history of unpaid tax liabilities dating back to 2011. The government's allegations include claims that Mitchell made significant purchases to maintain his lifestyle, including the acquisition of at least four luxury vehicles.
Twista, known for his 2004 album "Kamikaze," has received two Grammy nominations and has collaborated with artists such as Ye and Jamie Foxx. Representatives for Mitchell did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
"IRS Criminal Investigation doesn’t care how famous you are or what you’ve accomplished," said Adam Jobes of the IRS-CI's Chicago field office in a statement. "If you willfully refuse to pay your taxes, we’ll follow the money and bring you to justice."