The former general manager for the late pop idol Michael Jackson pleaded guilty in Washington federal district court today to charges she failed to file federal and District income tax returns.
Raymone Bain, a resident of the District, faces a maximum of a year in prison and a $100,000 fine for the federal charge, six months in prison, and a $5,000 fine for the D.C. criminal violation, the U.S. Justice Department said. U.S. Magistrate Alan Kay scheduled sentencing for Aug. 31.
Bain of Washington’s Davis, Bain & Associates, a public relations firm, became the personal general manager for Jackson in 2006. DOJ officials said Bain was responsible for the daily operations of the Michael Jackson Company, including financial, public relations and marketing tasks. She received $30,000 monthly as general manager and president.
Bain received a law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1984 but was not a licensed attorney, according to court records.
Prosecutors alleged Bain did not pay income tax from 2006 to 2008. The government estimated the tax loss between $200,000 and $400,000. In 2007 and in 2008, Bain, according to court records, requested an extension to file U.S. income tax returns.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Menzer and DOJ Tax Division trial attorney Karen Kelly were not immediately reached for comment this morning on the plea deal. Kelly is the assistant chief for the division’s Northern Criminal Enforcement Section.
“Bain well knew, and was fully aware that the law required she file federal tax returns and DC tax returns each year, but nevertheless failed to file,” prosecutors said in court papers. A copy of the plea agreement is here.
Bain’s attorney, Frederick Cooke Jr. of Washington’s Rubin, Winston, Diercks, Harris & Cooke, was not immediately reached for comment. Bain also was not reached for comment.
The Washington Post in 2006 wrote this profile of Bain, describing her as a "master of the care and coddling of famous folk, especially those who happen to find themselves in exceedingly hot water."
The death of Jackson in June 2009 left behind multiple lawsuits involving the pop music star. In one suit filed before Jackson's death, Bain demanded $44 million she claimed under a contract with Jackson. A trial judge in May 2010 sided with the Jackson estate. Bain's lawyers are fighting to get the judgment set aside.
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