The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today announced the arrest of Adama Zoungrana, 48, of 201 Lake Avenue, Staten Island, after he allegedly delivered untaxed cigarettes.
 
Cigarette Strike Force investigators seized:

• 1,025 cartons of contraband cigarettes;
• Zoungrana’s personal vehicle; and
• $2,720 in cash.

The cigarette packs in the cartons had official Virginia tax stamps, but not the New York State and New York City tax stamps required by law.

Charges and potential penalties include:

• 2nd degree criminal tax fraud, three other felonies, and a misdemeanor; and
• fines of up to $600 per carton seized, which could be as much as $615,000 in this case.

Zoungrana was released on his own recognizance. A follow-up court date has not been set. A criminal complaint is only an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The case will be prosecuted by the Richmond County District Attorney.

Report fraud

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