John C. Jones Jr.

John C. Jones Jr., commonly referred to as "Johnny," has been charged with four counts of failing to file franchise and excise tax returns on behalf of The Jones Company & Associates, Inc.

“The Department of Revenue promotes voluntary taxpayer compliance by educating taxpayers, aggressively pursuing criminal sanctions, and demanding accountability when taxpayers engage in fraudulent activity,” said Revenue Commissioner Richard Roberts. “This indictment underscores the department’s ongoing efforts to enforce Tennessee’s tax laws.”

Earlier this month, a Rutherford County grand jury issued an indictment, after hearing evidence alleging Jones had failed to pay more than $83,000 in taxes.

A representative from The Jones Company could not be reached for comment because the phone number listed on the company's website has been disconnected. However, during a brief cell phone interview, Jones did acknowledge the charges but would not discuss the matter further.

"I can't comment about this right now," Jones said.

The Department of Revenue worked in cooperation with District Attorney William Whitesell’s office to pursue the case criminally.

If convicted, Jones could face up to a maximum of two years in the state penitentiary and up to $3,000 in fines for each count of tax evasion.

Jones was transported and held on a $10,000 bond at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center. He was released from custody a short time later.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Jan. 6 in Rutherford County Circuit Court.