RHOA alum Peter Thomas sentenced to 18 months in prison for tax fraud and $2.5 million restitution

Peter Thomas, former RHOA star, sentenced to 18 months in prison for failing to pay $2.5 million in taxes.

Peter Thomas, former star of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for tax fraud. US District Judge Kenneth D. Bell Sr. handed down the sentence on December 19, 2024, after Thomas pleaded guilty to failing to pay over $2.5 million in employment taxes. In addition to prison time, Thomas was ordered to serve two years of supervised release and pay the full restitution amount.

Thomas, who gained fame as a reality TV star and operated the nightclub Bar One in Charlotte, North Carolina, admitted to one count of failing to pay trust fund taxes. Federal prosecutors justified their request for a two-year prison sentence by detailing how his actions unjustly enriched him while depriving the government and employees of vital funds for retirement and disability benefits.

Federal prosecutors detailed examples of Thomas’s misuse of funds, revealing he spent nearly $375,000 on travel and ride-sharing services and more than $250,000 on luxury items from brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy. Assistant US Attorney Caryn Finley emphasized that while individuals are free to spend their money as they choose, misusing funds owed to others, such as payroll taxes, constitutes a serious offense.

Thomas’s attorney, Melissa Owen, appealed for a lighter sentence, describing him as “incredibly remorseful” and highlighting his role as a supportive family man. She argued for a sentence of one year and one day, but the court ultimately sided with the prosecution’s recommendation.

Ahead of the sentencing, Thomas shared a video on Instagram, stating he was ready to “face the music” and clarifying that serving jail time would not absolve him of his tax obligations. He thanked his lawyer, the judge, and the prosecutor, expressing gratitude for the outcome despite the circumstances.