Snipes Pleads "Not Guilty" to Tax Fraud Charges

Hollywood actor Wesley Snipes flew to the US Friday to plead "Not Guilty" on federal charges of income tax fraud amounting to $11 million. After posting a $1 million bond, Snipes flew back to Africa where he is currently shooting his new film.

The charges were filed in October but controversies immediately followed because of Snipes unknown whereabouts. The 44-year old star of "Blade" and "US Marshals" reportedly negotiated with federal authorities so that he will be allowed to go home to plead in a US Court and then go back to Namibia to continue filming. The deal also required Snipes to return to the US by January 10 and surrender his passport.

According to Bobby O'Neill, criminal division chief in the U.S. Attorney's Office, “Suspects in these types of crimes are often allowed to go free before trial, and Snipes isn't getting preferential treatment because he is a celebrity.”

Representing Snipes is Dallas criminal lawyer Barry Sorrels, who have an extensive experience dealing with high profile cases.

Together with tax protest group leader Eddie Ray Kahn and Venice accountant Douglas P. Rosile, Snipes was charged with conspiracy to defraud the IRS, presenting a false claim for payment to the agency and failing to file income tax returns for several years.

The Internal Revenue Service doesn't believe Snipes' reason that he was a victim of unscrupulous tax advice. Amidst all controversies, rumors of a settlement deal are already circulating. Snipes would likely receive minimal prison term and payment plan if the deal with the prosecutors push through.

This was not the first time Snipes was charged with fraud. In 2005, he was caught trying to pass immigration with a fake South African passport at Johannesburg International Airport. He was given by the South African authorities an "undesirable" immigration status due to the incident.

Snipes' early acting career included roles on Broadway productions such as "Execution of Justice" and "Boys of Winter". His debut film was in the comedy "Wildcats", which starred Goldie Hawn. After almost 20 years of acting in films opposite famous actors such as Robert de Niro and Sean Connery, Snipes finally achieved the level of ultimate stardom for his sword-wielding vampire role in "Blade Trinity."

Florida-born Snipes has three children and is married to South Korean painter Nikki Park.