Philadelphia threatens jail for tax deadbeats

The move comes after the city collected $40 million dollars in a tax amnesty. Philadelphia was only counting on $30 million.

The city of Philadelphia collected about a third more than it expected from its tax amnesty. Now the city is threatening jail-time for some of those who have not paid up.

Mayor Michael Nutter: “We want our damn money, you owe it, we want it, and I plan to collect it.”

Nutter says the city collected over $40 million and another $20 million for the schools during the 54 day amnesty program, but there is close to $500 million still owed. Revenue Commissioner Keith Richardson says the city will step up its collection efforts.

“We’re working with the District Attorney’s office to prosecute those taxpayers who owe and that can result in up to seven years imprisonment.”

Mayor Nutter adds the city budgeted 30 million dollars from tax amnesty and the additional money will not stave off the cuts he’s announced including closing two fire stations and not replacing about 250 retiring police officers.

“This is not like we just walked outside and found an extra ten million dollars on the street. This is no extra, we need every possible dime we can get.”