Send tax fraudster to prison: Crown

The Crown told a St. John's court Friday that a man convicted of ripping off the taxman should be given a stiff prison sentence.

Kurt Fagan, 53, who had pleaded guilty in April to fraud and failing to pay taxes,stole $652,369.98 while he worked at the St. John's taxation centre.

In provincial court Friday, the Crown said Fagan should be given a five-year prison sentence.

As well, the Crown also wants restitution of the money he stole.

Anagreed statement of facts said Faganhadaccessedthe accounts of 101 individuals to obtain the money, and had manipulated information in 87 of themto have funds sent to himself. The money was usedto support a gambling addiction, particularly to video lottery terminals, court was told.

The defence is recommending a prison sentence of two years. Lawyer Scott Hurley said becauseFagan will have limited means after his release from prison, it is unrealistic for him to pay back everything. However, Hurley said Fagan willuse money from his pension to pay back what he can.

Fagan was fired from the taxation centre in 2008 and now depends on social assistance. Court was told that through counselling Fagan has stopped gambling.

Judge David Orr is scheduled to sentence Fagan on Nov. 18.