The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today announced Geoffrey Tyrrell, owner of Fat Jacks BBQ Restaurant, 344 Elmira Road, Ithaca, pleaded guilty to grand larceny and criminal tax fraud charges.

Between September 1, 2013 and May 31, 2017 Tyrell collected $199,491 in sales tax from his customers and failed to file sales tax returns and ultimately remit that money, as required by law, to New York State.

“Sales tax dollars fund vital public services. When that money is diverted instead for personal gain, it hurts the communities that need it most — especially in the midst of a global pandemic,” said New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Mike Schmidt. “We will continue to work with all levels of law enforcement to hold those accountable for tax crimes against New Yorkers.”

This case was prosecuted by the Tompkins County District Attorney’s Office. Tyrrell has paid $95,000 towards the tax due. The remaining amount will be paid through a restitution order when he’s sentenced on October 2, 2020.

Report fraud

You can report tax evasion and fraud online at the Tax Department's website or by phone at 518-457-0578. The information is kept confidential. The Tax Department promptly reviews each complaint and takes corrective action when appropriate.