Nevada businessman pleads to tax evasion

RENO (AP) - A Nevada businessman faces up to five years in prison and hefty fines on his guilty plea to federal tax evasion.

Bradley H. Herndon pleaded guilty to one count Thursday before U.S. District Judge in Reno.

Besides possible prison time, the 54-year-old Herndon also faces up to a $250,000 fine when sentenced in May.

Authorities say Herndon operated three restaurants and two Duds 'n Suds laundries in Reno, as well as the Club JB nightclub in Carson City.

Between 2005 and 2007, prosecutors say he skimmed cash receipts and prepared false documents to conceal his actions from his company's bookkeeper and tax preparer.

The IRS says he understated his income by more than $100,000 in 2005 and 2006, and by $52,000 in 2007, cheating the government out of $75,000.

Herndon also owned the former Joe Bob's Chicken on Old Hot Springs Road.