'Jersey Shore's' Mike 'The Situation' Sorrentino Charged with Tax Evasion for $8.9 Million

Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino, the Jersey Shore star, and his brother Mark have been indicted for filing false tax returns for 2011-2012.

A press release was sent out from The United States Attorney's Office District of New Jersey stating the following: "Television personality Michael "The Situation" Sorrentino and his brother Marc Sorrentino are expected to appear in federal court this afternoon to face an indictment alleging they did not properly pay taxes on $8.9 million in income Michael Sorrentino received from promotional activities, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced."

Though these are alleged charged, that's not to say this isn't serious. $8.9 million is a serious tax evasion.

According to the statement the two brothers are charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States along with the two to three counts of false tax returns in 2010-2012. Mike faces an additional count, for allegedly failing to file a tax return in 2011.

"According to the indictment, Michael and Marc Sorrentino filed false tax returns that incorrectly reported millions made from promotions and appearances," said U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman. "The brothers allegedly also claimed costly clothes and cars as business expenses and funneled company money into personal accounts. The law is absolutely clear: telling the truth to the IRS is not optional."

Acting Special Agent, Jonathan D. Larsen, states that, "No matter what your occupation or status in life, if you attempt to cheat on your taxes for personal financial gain, you face real consequences including criminal prosecution and a possible prison sentence."

The fine for false tax returns carry a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The conspiracy count which is also alleged, is a maximum penalty of five years in prison with a $250,000 fine.

Other celebrities that have fought tax evasion include Martha Stewart, Wesley Snipes, Nicolas Cage, Mark Anthony and Willie Nelson, to name a few.