A Corona man was arrested today and charged with three counts of failing to file state income tax returns, according to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB).
Robert L. Klesath, 39, a licensed real estate broker, was arrested by FTB investigators at his ex-wife's residence in Chino Hills without incident. He was booked on charges that he failed to file state income tax returns for the years 1997-1999. In those years, Klesath, was both self-employed and employed by a large financial institution as a mortgage loan officer earning more than $304,000. He owes the state more than $21,000 in delinquent income taxes.
Investigators say that Klesath ignored repeated requests from the FTB to file his state income tax returns. Instead, Klesath demanded assessments be made so he could contest the validity of the notices. This is a tactic commonly used by illegal tax protesters.
Bail was set at $100,000. Arraignment is scheduled for June 26th at San Bernardino Superior Court, Rancho Cucamonga Courthouse. If convicted, Klesath could receive up to nine years in state prison.