- 26 - A taxpayer's failure to keep adequate records is a badge of fraud. Bradford v. Commissioner, supra; Lollis v. Commissioner, 595 F.2d 1189, 1192 (9th Cir. 1979), affg. T.C. Memo. 1976-15. Petitioner did not keep adequate records. Implausible or inconsistent explanations of behavior by a taxpayer can show that he or she had fraudulent intent. Bradford v. Commissioner, supra at 307; Grosshandler v. Commissioner, 75 T.C. 1, 20 (1980). Petitioner's testimony was not credible. Petitioner's claim that she was uninvolved and completely unaware of the drug trafficking operation is implausible. Engaging in illegal activities is evidence that the taxpayer intends to evade tax. Bradford v. Commissioner, supra at 308; see Patton v. Commissioner, supra (income from illegal activities is a badge of fraud). Petitioner engaged in illegal drug activities during the years in issue. A taxpayer's failure to cooperate with the Commissioner's examining agents is a badge of fraud. Bradford v. Commissioner, supra. Petitioner did not cooperate with respondent's examining agents. Instead, she removed several things from her home, including a file cabinet containing financial records, before IRS agents could execute a search warrant. If a taxpayer conceals assets, it is evidence of fraud. Bradford v. Commissioner, supra. Petitioner's home, automobile,Page: Previous 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Next
Last modified: May 25, 2011