link to original reddit post by /u/MartinLutherQueef
Randolph Morris, who played in the NBA and foreign professional leagues, was accused in Federal Court of three counts of wire fraud and eight counts of false statements, facing decades in Federal prison and millions of dollars in taxes and penalties, after "failing to report" $18 million in income on his taxes earned between 2010 and 2017 while playing for the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association.
Morris never denied that he didn't report the foreign income to the IRS as he was advised it had already been taxed (the Chinese government refused to supply the contract and tax documents for the case). As part of his contract with the Beijing Ducks, a provision stated his income was "net of tax" and he chose ultimately to sign with the team because they agreed to handle all of his tax obligations. His agent also confirmed this. Furthermore, during this same time period, Morris reported all other income earned to the IRS.
It was suggested Morris "concocted a scheme" to defraud the United States. An assistant U.S. attorney stated in court, "This case is about common sense," and not taxes, laws, treaties, or forms.
The jury deliberated for three hours before returning the not guilty verdict of intentionally defrauding the United States, acquitting him of all charges.
Morris’ wife testified that their family has been terrified and life made a living hell by the IRS and its investigators since 2018.
A win for the good guys!
Article, if interested: https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/more-sports/jury-to-decide-if-former-uk-basketball-star-intended-to-leave-millions-off-his-taxes/ar-AAOITr1