How much did you pay for that boat, dude?

NEWS RELEASE

CANADA BORDER SERVICES AGENCY

************************* Longlac, Ontario man charged for undervaluing boat purchased in United States

SAULT STE. MARIE - (February 26) - A Longlac, Ontario man has been charged with one count of evading compliance and making false statements under the Customs Act for undervaluing a boat, motor and trailer purchased in the U.S.

On February 23, 2008, the 46-year-old man was attempting to import an 18-foot boat, outboard motors and trailer purchased in Michigan through the Port of Sault Ste Marie.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers completing the transaction suspected that the declared value of $10,000 U.S. for the purchase of these items was low and asked him to produce supporting documents to confirm the purchase price.

After failing to provide any documentation to confirm the purchase, CBSA Officers continued to question the man, who then admitted that he had paid $16,000 U.S. for the boat, motor and trailer and had put a $5,000 U.S. deposit on a truck.

He claimed not to have a copy of the bank draft used to pay for these items.

After being informed that the goods were being seized for failing to declare their true value and that a penalty would be imposed, a bank draft for $21,000 U.S. made out to the vendor of the items was found among his travelling companion's personal effects.

CBSA Officers eventually were able to confirm that the true purchase price for the boat, motor and trailer was $21,000 U.S.

By failing to declare the full value of the goods, the man attempted to evade $1,452.31 in taxes.

He was released on a $400 bond and is scheduled to appear in Sault Ste. Marie court to face the charges on March 31, 2008.

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