Reality TV
'Survivor' winner jailed for tax evasion
Published Wednesday, May 17 2006, 09:41 BST | By Dave West
Richard Hatch – the first winner of Survivor - has been jailed for lying about his $1 million prize.
He was sentenced to four years and three months after being found guilty of tax evasion. A US judge also told the reality TV star to receive psychological counselling when he was released.
Hatch was told to correctly report his winnings in 2000 to authorities. The judge said he imposed a strict sentence because the offender had consistently lied about earnings, tax and the extent of his property.
"His testimony is replete with statements that are flatly contradicted by credible witnesses and documented evidence," he said. Hatch stuck to his position, commenting: "I believe I've been completely truthful and completely forthcoming throughout this entire process."
He was sentenced to four years and three months after being found guilty of tax evasion. A US judge also told the reality TV star to receive psychological counselling when he was released.
Hatch was told to correctly report his winnings in 2000 to authorities. The judge said he imposed a strict sentence because the offender had consistently lied about earnings, tax and the extent of his property.
"His testimony is replete with statements that are flatly contradicted by credible witnesses and documented evidence," he said. Hatch stuck to his position, commenting: "I believe I've been completely truthful and completely forthcoming throughout this entire process."
More: Reality TV, Survivor
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