Commentary on the Judgment of the Court of Cassation Criminal No. 36765 of 2024: Tax Evasion and the Responsibility of the Liquidator

The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation No. 36765 of 2024 offers important insights regarding criminal liability in cases of tax evasion by liquidators of cooperative companies. In this article, we will analyze the main points of the decision, the applicable laws, and the implications for legal professionals.

The Specific Case and Grounds for Appeal

The appellant, A.A., liquidator of the cooperative La Rinascita, had been convicted of tax evasion due to irregularities in the income and VAT declarations. The Court of Appeal of Potenza had acquitted A.A. of some charges but confirmed others, reducing the sentence to eight months of imprisonment. The appellant subsequently challenged the ruling, complaining about the lack of renewal of the trial proceedings and contesting the reasoning behind the conviction.

The mismanagement of the rules regarding tax benefits for cooperatives cannot be argued by claiming the failure to present a declarative proof.

The Decision of the Court of Cassation

The Court rejected the appeal, emphasizing that the appellant did not provide sufficient evidence to demonstrate the legitimacy of the tax benefits he sought recognition for. The Court clarified that, in the presence of evident management anomalies, the burden of proof for the right to benefits lies with the taxpayer. Among the irregularities noted, we highlight:

  • Undeclared revenues of a significant amount.
  • Unregistered invoices.
  • Failure to present financial statements.

Furthermore, the Court pointed out that the appellant's behavior, including the failure to pay taxes, indicated intent to defraud and evade taxes.

Implications and Final Thoughts

This ruling serves as an important reminder for liquidators of cooperatives and legal professionals. It is essential to understand that tax benefits, while advantageous, must be managed in accordance with current regulations. A.A.'s case demonstrates how a lack of transparency and irregular management can lead to significant criminal consequences.

Conclusions

In conclusion, ruling No. 36765 of 2024 is a clear warning about the necessity for prudent and compliant management of cooperatives, particularly regarding tax declarations. The responsibility of the liquidator extends beyond operational management to include fiscal aspects, requiring constant attention and proper documentation.