ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 27, 2006) - Comptroller William Donald Schaefer today announced that agents of his Regulatory and Enforcement Division executed a search and seizure warrant at 127 West 4th Street, in Frederick, Md., the residence of Steven Tluszcz, Friday, July 21, at 1:25 p.m. The warrant was issued subsequent to alcoholic beverages being purchased at Mr. Tluszcz's residence by an undercover Comptroller's Office enforcement agent. Agents seized 1,029 containers of wine, champagne and other alcoholic beverages during the raid, believed to be valued at more than $150,000.
"We're vigilant," said Comptroller Schaefer. "We make it a priority to protect legitimate business in Maryland. If you're a tax cheat, we'll catch you."
The raid results from an investigation triggered by a complaint made to the Comptroller's Office regarding the illegal sale of alcohol by Mr. Tluszcz, from his residence and elsewhere. Mr. Tluszcz will be charged with the sale of alcoholic beverages without a license, a misdemeanor that carries a $1,000 fine or imprisonment for not more than two years, or both. He will also be charged with the possession of alcoholic beverages for the purpose of sale, also a misdemeanor that carries a fine of $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than two years, or both. Other charges may be pending.
The unlicensed sale of alcohol violates not only Maryland state law, but the licensing laws delegated to each county and the cities of Annapolis and Baltimore. In addition, the Comptroller of Maryland works to assure that only tax-paid alcoholic beverages are sold in the state and that all other applicable licenses have been obtained, ensuring a level playing field for Maryland alcohol retailers and wholesalers.
Mr. Tluszcz is the sixth individual arrested for alcoholic beverage violations this fiscal year, which began July 1.
For other news from the Office of the Comptroller, visit: www.marylandtaxes.com
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Michael D. Golden, 410-260-7305
Kevin P. Kane, 410-260-7578
