In his first public comments since his indictment on tax fraud charges after seeking $12 million in tax refunds and failing to file returns for six years, actor Wesley Snipes claims he is a "scapegoat":

I know this has more to do with a few individuals with access to power, making moves (trying to move up!) and less with some alleged crime against the whole population of the United States of America. This reminds me of Rape cases where the "victim" is flipped, turned or converted into the role of victimizer, the "architect conspirator." It appears I’m to be the scapegoat, because there’s more public interest in "celebrities gone bad" than "rich people being taken advantage of."

Being, a black male who asks questions doesn’t help the situation either….

If I have violated someone, then I’m prepared to seek forgiveness and make amends. One is a artist and scholar seeking truth though diligent study and spiritual practice. Perhaps people like that have now become the enemy of the State. And trading with the enemy is dangerous business no matter who you are. In peace and in Light I only ask for your prayers.

For more press coverage, see E! Online.  For prior TaxProf Blog coverage, see:

• Wesley Snipes Indicted on Tax Fraud Charges After Seeking $12 Million Tax Refund (10/17/06)
• NY Times on the Wesley Snipes Indictment (10/18/06)
• Wesley Snipes Update (10/22/06)
• Snipes Settles Tax Fraud Charges, Will Avoid Jail Time (11/3/06)
• Prosecutor: No Deal in Wesley Snipes Tax Fraud Case (11/4/06)
• More on Wesley Snipes’ Non-Settlement of Tax Fraud Charges (11/7/06)