October 9, 2009 15:12

Method Man facing four years in prison over tax evasion

Wu-Tang Clan man and 'The Wire' actor arrested in New York

Method Man has been arrested and charged with tax evasion in New York.

The Wu Tang Clan rapper, real name Clifford Smith, turned himself in to police on Monday (October 5), after an arrest warrant was issued due to him reportedly failing to pay almost $33,000 (£20,700) in personal income taxes.

His arrest was confirmed in a press release from the district attorney's office in New York's Staten Island, reports MTV News.

The rapper has been charged with a repeated failure to file personal income and earnings tax, along with a further charge of misdemeanour failure to pay tax.

If found guilty of the offences, Method Man could face up to four years in prison.

A court date is yet to be set, but Staten Island District Attorney Daniel Donovan said the rapper will not receive any special treatment when his case is investigated.

"Taxes are a burden that all citizens share in a civil society, whether you're an average Joe on the street or a high-profile rap artist," Donovan said in a statement. "Because of the alleged action of people like Mr Smith, law abiding citizens face higher taxes and reduced government services."

Along with being a member of the Wu Tang Clan and a solo artist, Method Man has also pursued a career in acting, most notably as Calvin 'Cheese' Wagstaff in 'The Wire'.