IRS Says County Commissioner Flouted Summonses

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart, already facing trial on felony campaign finance charges, is due to appear before a federal judge in January. Rinehart's being asked

Thursday, November 22nd 2007, 8:53 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart, already facing trial on felony campaign finance charges, is due to appear before a federal judge in January. Rinehart's being asked to explain why he hasn't complied with two Internal Revenue Service summonses.

Court papers indicate the IRS is investigating Rinehart and his company, Unta Bent Inc., for 2003 tax liabilities.

In a declaration filed in federal court in Oklahoma City, tax agent Chris Driskill says Rinehart ignored a summons from the IRS small business division. He then refused to answer questions or provide requested documents when he met with Driskill.

Prosecutors want a judge to order Rinehart to comply. Rinehart couldn't be reached for comment.

Rinehart was bound over for trial on state campaign finance charges last week.