Introduction
Mike ‘The Situation’ Sorrentino is best known as one of the original cast members on the hit MTV reality show Jersey Shore which ran from 2009 to 2012. Sorrentino was a breakout star on the show, known for his muscular physique, flashy lifestyle and comedic one-liners. However, in recent years he has made headlines for legal troubles that ultimately resulted in an 8 month federal prison sentence in 2018. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the crimes that Mike Sorrentino committed and the events that led to his conviction and incarceration.
Tax Evasion Charges
In September 2014, Sorrentino and his brother Marc were indicted on tax offenses stemming from nearly $9 million in income that The Situation earned between 2010 and 2012. According to prosecutors, the Sorrentino brothers set up multiple businesses to control and distribute Mike’s assets and income from Jersey Shore. However, they allegedly filed false tax returns that underreported Mike’s earnings and overstated business expenses to avoid paying taxes.
Specifically, Sorrentino was charged with failing to properly pay taxes on $8.9 million in income, claiming numerous personal items as business write-offs, including luxury vehicles and clothing. In total, it was estimated that Sorrentino evaded paying $550,000 in federal taxes and $123,000 in state taxes.
Conviction and Sentencing
Sorrentino initially pleaded not guilty to the tax evasion charges. In January 2018, his trial began in a New Jersey federal court. During the trial, prosecutors provided evidence of the falsified tax returns and presented witnesses detailing the brothers’ efforts to conceal income and lie to their accountants about their finances.
On January 19, 2018, a jury found Mike and Marc Sorrentino guilty on multiple counts of tax evasion. In October 2018, Mike was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison and 2 years of supervised release. His brother Marc received a 2 year prison sentence.
In addition to jail time, Sorrentino was ordered to complete 500 hours of community service and pay restitution of $123,000 to the IRS in back taxes. Prior to reporting to prison, Sorrentino tweeted that he was turning his life around, writing “The comeback is always greater than the setback.”
Details of Crimes & Conviction
| Crime | Date | Conviction & Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Evasion | 2010-2012 | Pleaded guilty. Sentenced to 8 months in prison. |
| Filing False Tax Returns | 2010-2012 | Found guilty by jury. |
| Failure to Pay Federal Taxes Owed | 2010-2012 | Ordered to pay $123,000 in restitution to IRS. |
Quotes on Conviction
After being found guilty of tax crimes, Mike Sorrentino made the following public statements expressing regret:
“I’m saddened and humbled. The court smiled upon us and we’re just going to gear up for sentencing.”
“We understand that this is very serious matter. I take responsibility for my actions. I look forward to marrying my college sweetheart, Lauren.”
“I will learn from this mistake and come back stronger, wiser, and better than ever.”
The federal prosecutors made the following statement after the jury returned guilty verdicts:
“The conduct that led up to this trial showed a willful disdain for the law and is an insult to all Americans who work hard to pay their taxes so that they can support their families and communities.”
“The jury’s verdict sends a clear message – everyone must pay their fair share, regardless of income, social status, or celebrity.”
Why did Mike Sorrentino commit tax evasion?
Prosecutors alleged that Sorrentino knowingly hid a significant portion of his income from Jersey Shore to avoid paying the full amount of taxes he owed. With the help of his brother, he set up sham businesses to conceal income and wrote off personal expenditures as business expenses.
How much money did Mike Sorrentino evade in taxes?
It was estimated that in total across multiple years, Sorrentino evaded paying around $550,000 in federal taxes and $123,000 in state taxes.
How long was Mike Sorrentino sentenced to prison for?
Sorrentino was sentenced to 8 months in federal prison for tax evasion. His brother Marc received a 24 month prison sentence.
Where did Mike Sorrentino serve his prison sentence?
Mike Sorrentino served his 8 month sentence at the Federal Correctional Institution in Otisville, New York. He was released in September 2019.
What has Mike Sorrentino done since being released from prison?
After prison, Sorrentino married his long-time girlfriend Lauren Pesce. He has spoken about his time in prison and desire to turn his life around. Sorrentino appears to be focused on maintaining his sobriety and keeping out of legal issues.
Conclusion
Mike ‘The Situation’ Sorrentino achieved fame and fortune with Jersey Shore, but his failure to pay taxes on millions in income eventually caught up with him. After a high profile trial, Sorrentino was sentenced to federal prison for tax crimes. His case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of proper tax compliance regardless of income level or celebrity status. While Sorrentino made mistakes in evading his tax obligations, he has expressed regret and a desire to learn from the experience. With his incarceration behind him, the reality star now appears focused on the next chapter of his life and keeping on the right side of the law.