Evergreen Reporter

Sedita Charles Cayson, a 59-year-old real estate agent from Panacea, Florida, has been sentenced to 14 months in federal prison for willfully failing to file his income tax returns over five years. The sentencing followed a bench trial that concluded with Cayson being found guilty of five counts related to the tax years 2017-2021. Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentence.

"The United States relies on the honest payment of taxes to defend our country and maintain its operations," stated Acting United States Attorney Spaven. "We will investigate and prosecute those who falsely misrepresent their income. On behalf of the hard-working American taxpayers, we will continue to partner with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation to ensure those who steal are held accountable."

Trial evidence showed that Cayson, known as the "Land Man," had not filed his personal income taxes for several years despite earning substantial commissions from real estate sales. He was previously assessed liens by the IRS for delinquencies dating back to 2004-2007 and 2011-2013. From 2017 onwards, Cayson instructed his broker to split commission checks into amounts below $10,000, which he then cashed immediately at banks. Over these years, he accrued $158,840 in unpaid income taxes.

"This sentencing sends a clear message that evading your tax obligations will not be tolerated," said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of IRS Criminal Investigation's Tampa Field Office. "The 'Land Man' case demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that all citizens are held accountable for their actions."

In addition to serving time in prison, Cayson is required to pay restitution amounting to $158,840 and cover prosecution costs totaling $34,755. After his prison term, he will undergo one year of supervised release.

The investigation leading to this conviction was conducted by the IRS Criminal Investigation unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Harley Ferguson and Justin M. Keen prosecuted the case.

For more information about public court documents or details regarding the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, interested parties can visit their official website.