A former New York state tax auditor has been indicted for taking bribes to help a national strip club chain avoid paying over $8 million in sales taxes.
Attorney General Letitia James announced charges against Alton Plunkett, who allegedly accepted luxury trips, cash, and private dances from executives at RCI Hospitality Holdings, Inc. — the company behind clubs like Rick’s Cabaret and Tootsie’s in Miami — in exchange for favorable treatment during tax audits spanning more than a decade.
Plunkett was arraigned in New York County Supreme Court and charged with bribe receiving, criminal tax fraud, conspiracy, and falsifying business records.
“This former tax employee, if convicted, faces severe consequences, including a possible prison term,” said Acting State Tax Commissioner Amanda Hiller.
Bribes disguised as “promotional expenses”
According to the indictment, RCI executives arranged at least 13 multi-day trips for Plunkett, covering hotels, restaurants, and thousands of dollars in daily entertainment at their clubs — including up to $5,000 a day in private dances.
On at least 10 occasions, Timothy Winata, RCI’s controller, personally delivered illegal bribes to Plunkett in Manhattan. The payments were logged in company books as “promotional” expenses to conceal the scheme.
The effort was reportedly directed by top RCI leadership, including:
- Eric Langan, President and CEO
- Bradley Chhay, CFO
- Ahmed Anakar, Director of Operations
- Shaun Kevlin, Regional Manager and Assistant Director of Nightclub Operations
All five executives were indicted earlier this month.
If convicted on the top charge, Plunkett could face up to 25 years in prison.
AG: “Zero tolerance” for public corruption
Attorney General James said the case highlights the importance of holding public officials and corporations accountable.
“Alton Plunkett took numerous bribes to help RCI and its executives cheat New Yorkers and avoid paying their fair share in taxes,” she said. “We have zero tolerance for public officials using their office for personal gain.”
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.
