Former Sullivan County Business Owner Pleads to Tax Evasion

BLOUNTVILLE - The Special Investigations Section of the Tennessee Department of Revenue conducted the investigation that led to Robert Ranuro pleading “no contest” to two counts of sales tax evasion today. Ranuro, 56, previously owned Biggies TN, a restaurant in Kingsport.  Judge James Goodwin accepted Ranuro’s plea to sales tax and liquor-by- the drink tax evasion.

“Most businesses in Tennessee remit the tax dollars they collect from customers,” Revenue Commissioner David Gerregano said.  “This plea should serve as a warning to those that believe they can get away with tax fraud.  Our Department remains committed to prosecuting tax evaders to ensure a level playing for all businesses.”

The Department pursued this criminal case in cooperation with District Attorney Barry Staubus’ office.  Citizens who suspect violations of Tennessee's revenue laws should call the toll-free tax fraud hot line at (800) FRAUDTX (372-8389).

The Department of Revenue is responsible for the administration of state tax laws and motor vehicle title and registration laws, as well as the collection of taxes and fees associated with those laws.  The Department collects about 87 percent of total state revenue. During the 2018 fiscal year, it collected $14.5 billion in state taxes and fees and more than $2.8 billion in taxes and fees for local governments.

To learn more about the Department, visit www.tn.gov/revenue.