D.A. slaps Method Man with Tax Evasion charges

Following his arrest in New York on Monday for charges stemming from tax evasion, rapper and Wu Tang Clan member Clifford Smith, better known as Method Man, was arraigned and speaking out about his well publicized arrest.

"I don't like things being blown out of proportion," he told Angryape website. "Let's be clear. I didn't get arrested for not paying. I got arrested for not filing. It's not a money thing, because I paid it. When you don't file, that's what happens. I'm learning my lesson."

The Grammy winning rapper is charged with failure to pay personal income tax and failure to file a return for four years reportedly owing almost $33,000 for the years 2004 through 2007.

A slow day in the Staten Island DA's office produced a rushed statement on the status of the rappers' case. District Attorney Daniel Donovan stated, "Taxes are a burden that all citizens share in a civil society, whether you're an average Joe on the street or a high-profile rap artist. Because of the alleged action of people like Mr. Smith, law abiding citizens face higher taxes and reduced government services."

A court date has yet to be set but Smith could face up to four year in prison if found guilty of the charges.