Twista Admits Guilt in Tax Evasion Case, Sentencing Set for October

Chicago rapper Twista has entered a guilty plea in his federal tax evasion case, admitting to serious charges that could result in significant prison time.

The 52-year-old artist, born Carl Mitchell, acknowledged five counts of willfully failing to pay income taxes spanning from 2019 through 2023. According to IRS Criminal Investigations, he owes more than $440,000 in back taxes during that period.

Court documents filed last week confirm that Twista signed the guilty plea last month in U.S. District Court. The case reveals a pattern of deliberate tax avoidance despite repeated warnings from both the IRS and his own accountants regarding his mounting tax obligations.

Prosecutors allege that rather than settling his tax debts, Twista "entered into agreements with a third-party company to pay him advances on future royalties, knowing that the IRS would not be able to levy these funds," according to an IRS statement.

His income sources have included live performances, album sales, streaming revenue, and royalties. The government also notes that unpaid tax liabilities extend back to 2011. Investigators claim Twista made substantial personal purchases to maintain his lifestyle, acquiring at least four luxury vehicles during the period in question.

The Grammy-nominated artist gained prominence with his 2024 album Kamikaze and has collaborated throughout his career with major artists such as Kanye West, Jamie Foxx, Chris Brown, R. Kelly, and Pharrell Williams.

Following his guilty plea, Twista now faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 22.