Comedian Carlos Mencia Faces 12 Felony Counts Over Unpaid California Taxes

Comedian Carlos Mencia was arrested at his Encino home and charged with 12 felony counts of California state tax evasion, accused of failing to pay taxes on $8.7 million in income earned between 2019 and 2024, according to The A.V. Club. The former host of Comedy Central's "Mind of Mencia" pleaded not guilty to the charges, which could result in up to 11 years in prison, Deadline reported.

2 sources

The A.V. ClubComedian Carlos Mencia arrested on 12 felony counts of California tax evasionDeadlineCarlos Mencia Pleads Not Guilty to Tax Evasion Charges, Released on $50K Bail

Mencia appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday, where his bail was reduced to $50,000, and he was released after posting it, Deadline noted. The A.V. Club reported that his career peaked in the mid-2000s with the Comedy Central series, which ran from 2005 to 2008, and he continues to work as a touring club comedian.

"His defense team criticized the district attorney's office for what they called 'overreach.'"

Mencia's legal team pushed back against the charges, framing the prosecution as excessive, according to Deadline. The case highlights the state's ongoing efforts to pursue high-profile tax delinquencies, with the comedian now facing a potential lengthy sentence if convicted. The A.V. Club noted that the arrest took place on June 18, and Mencia's next court appearance has not yet been scheduled.