NewsHK

Carlos Mencia Pleads Not Guilty as Los Angeles Launches First Case From New Business Tax Fraud Unit

6/24/2026

LOS ANGELES — Carlos Mencia, the stand-up comedian known for his Comedy Central series "Mind of Mencia," entered a not guilty plea Monday to 12 felony counts of tax fraud in a Los Angeles County courtroom, becoming the debut prosecution of the district attorney's newly formed Business Tax Fraud Unit.

Prosecutors allege Mencia failed to report or pay taxes on more than $8.7 million in personal and corporate income across six years, accumulating a state tax liability of more than $300,000.

A New Enforcement Unit Makes Its Mark The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Business Tax Fraud Unit was created in May 2026 specifically to pursue individuals and businesses suspected of intentional tax evasion.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman, announcing the case, made clear that the office intends to pursue those who gain an unfair advantage by sidestepping state tax laws, framing the prosecution as the first of what he described as a broader criminal enforcement push.

Keep reading

Read the full story

Open on NewsHK