Many years ago, people who owed debts but could not pay them were hauled off to “debtors prison” and kept there until they found a way to pay off their debt. This system of debt collection was recognized as inefficient and cruel, and in 1833 a U.S. federal law was passed banning debtor prisons. Several states followed suit over the years, until it seemed that such a barbaric debt collection system was a footnote in history. Then, with the rise of bankruptcy laws, there was a clear understanding that financial setbacks and problems should be forgiven under the proper set of circumstances.
However, while the government is willing to step in and free a borrower from the obligation of paying back creditors for goods or services they have received, they are not quite as generous about forgiving debts such as owed taxes and government backed student loans. And in the 1980’s and 1990’s, many jurisdictions started going after individuals who still had pending tax bills or student loans due, and many of those who were apprehended were surprised to find themselves thrown in jail for failing to pay their bill. In many cases, the charge was “contempt” or some other ruse to avoid saying that they were in prison for non-payment of a debt, but that is exactly what it was.
Man jailed for non-payment of student loan, page 2:
yes Shapton owes 4 million in taxes
They must have better things to do besides being a collection agency
That means they are going to kill my$#%&!@*
And Sharpton owes 4.5 million. Soros owes 20 billion.
Lives in a mansion. Told deputies he had a gun. Don’t feel a bit sorry for the bum.
He should be charged interest for those 29 years. I am expected to pay my debts. I was raised that way. Shouldn’t we all pay our debts?
So sorry our government is so currupt
Wow, I owed like 9 k and they garnished my pay making it almost impossible to live week to week. I borrowed against my retirement
Wonder why Al Sharpton hasn’t be charged with tax evasion? $1500 is peanuts compared to what sharpton owes.
Oh, all your records were lost in a fire. All 3 times. No bank records at the banks? You do realize they can EASILY look up withdraws and bank statements for years back, right?
Michael, not showing up for a Federal court… such as Federal loans… is a felony. I notice you glossed over the threats and avoiding law enforcement for 3 years huh?
Yup, some people are indeed morons.