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Bergen County Businessman Faces Tax Fraud Charges
Local Fireproofing and Painting Company Owner Indicted for Alleged Evasion of Over $680,000 in Taxes
In a significant development announced by U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger, John Constantino, a 67-year-old businessman from Ridgewood, New Jersey, is facing an 18-count indictment related to tax evasion and failure to file tax returns.
The charges against Constantino stem from his operation of a Bergen County-based fireproofing and painting business, which he has owned since at least 1989.
According to court documents and statements made during the proceedings, Constantino and his company reportedly failed to report substantial income from 2017 to 2022. This omission has resulted in $682,735 in unpaid taxes to the United States.
Investigations reveal that Constantino engaged in deliberate actions to conceal his and his company's income and assets. These actions included cashing checks worth approximately $13 million payable to his business at a check-cashing facility and structuring bank deposits to evade Currency Transaction Reports to the U.S. Department of Treasury.
The indictment outlines six counts of tax evasion and 12 counts of failure to file tax returns against Constantino. Each count of tax evasion could result in a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of $100,000. Similarly, the charges for failing to file tax returns could lead to a year in prison and a fine of $100,000 for each count.
This case has been brought to light thanks to the diligent work of IRS-Criminal Investigation agents, under the leadership of Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark is representing the government in this case.
It is important to remember that the charges and allegations against John Constantino are currently accusations. He remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and financial consequences of tax evasion and the importance of compliance with tax laws.
