Method Man Turns Himself in for Tax Evasion

No one likes paying taxes, but Method Man (as per usual) has taken things to a new level. After years of evasion, the money-starved system finally caught up with the Wu-Tang legend, and it's now a felony situation. The New York Post reports that Method Man -- real name Clifford Smith -- has turned himself in to the Staten Island DA for failure to pay approximately $33,000 in back taxes.

According to the DA's office and the state Department of Taxation, Mef has been a delinquent as far back as 2004. The arrest was announced by DA Daniel Donovan and New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Jamie Woodward -- the proud owner of the longest job title known to man.

"Taxes are the burden that all citizens share in a civil society, whether you are an 'average Joe' on the street or a high-profile rap artist," explained Donovan in a press release. "Because of the alleged action of people like Mr. Smith, law abiding citizens face higher taxes and reduced government services. Failure to properly report and pay your taxes is a crime against all citizens and will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted."

OK, Mr. Donovan -- we'll take that point, but what about officials from your own government that completely game the system like Charles Rangel? Rangel actually leads the House committee that writes our tax laws, owes way more than Method Man and has still received no legitimate punishment at all. When he turns himself in, comes clean, resigns and goes to Rikers Island, then we'll take another look at Method Man. Cool?