Stephen Baldwin Admits Failing To Pay $300,000 In NY Taxes For Three Years, Looks Forward To “Clearing Wreckage Of My Past”

Stephen Baldwin admitted on Friday, March 29, that he failed to pay New York state income taxes for three years, in 2008, 2009, and 2010.

Under a plea barging, Stephen Baldwin can stay out of jail so he can earn the $300,000 he owes in taxes. As part of the bargain, Baldwin, if he can pay the sum back within a year, will have his record wiped clean.

Baldwin said that he's looking forward to "clearing the wreckage of my past."

Baldwin's total bill in taxes, interest and penalties is $400,000. However, state Supreme Court Justice Charles Apotheker said $100,000 has already been paid, according to the Associated Press.

In court, he said he never intended to avoid paying taxes and simply misplaced his trust in others.

"Unfortunately, I got some really bad suggestions and advice...from lawyers and accountants," he told the press outside court.

Baldwin said he believes he can meet the deadline in a year, noting that his father always made ends meet when he earned only $25,000 per year and raised six children.

"I just look forward to getting the $300,000 paid in the next year," he said.

Baldwin is currently starring on "All-Star Celebrity Apprentice." He also told the press that he's directing a movie that stars his brother William, and that other "faith-based opportunities" have been emerging that will help him to meet the deadline.

If Baldwin can't pay back all the owed money within a year, the plea bargain provides for a five-year sentence of probation, with full repayment within that time. If he can't fulfill that option, he may face jail time.

In addition to William, Stephen Baldwin is also the brother of Alec and Daniel Baldwin, all of whom are actors. Stephen Baldwin denied that he was getting any monetary support from them. He said, "Just support as family support... The responsibility lies ultimately with myself."

The AP reported that no sentencing date has been set, but that Stephen Baldwin will have to appear in court in June to see how repayment is going.