The 61-year-old was taken into custody following a coordinated investigation involving local law enforcement and the Internal Revenue Service. Authorities say the investigation had been ongoing for over eight months, sparked by an anonymous tip and suspicious financial discrepancies in Fleming’s Tax filings.
Fleming was apprehended at court on Tuesday being 22nd of April also for possession of illicit substances, including MDMA ketamine, along with paraphernalia indicating personal use and possible distribution.
In addition to the drug charges, federal prosecutors revealed that Fleming is facing four felony counts of tax evasion, spanning from 2019. Documents allege that he failed to report over $3.5 million in income, routed through a complex network of companies and offshore accounts. Investigators believe Fleming used these entities to conceal earnings from interior design business and investments in a now-defunct brand he co-founded.
The judge quoted “No one is above the law, regardless of fame or financial status. Our investigation shows a deliberate attempt to defraud the Belgian and U.S. government while continuing to live a lavish lifestyle funded by hidden income.”
Nick Fleming's legal team issued a brief statement Tuesday afternoon, maintaining their client's innocence and calling the charges “exaggerated and premature.” Attorney James, who is representing Fleming, argued, “Mr. Fleming has always been transparent in his dealings and denies all allegations of wrongdoing. We believe the evidence will show he has been unfairly targeted.”
Friends, Family and colleagues expressed shock at the news. Fleming, who had built a reputation for his charitable work and polished public image, has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and youth rehabilitation programs. Many are now grappling with the dissonance between his public persona and the charges leveled against him.
As the case unfolds, Fleming’s future remains uncertain. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of up to 25 years: 10 for the drug-related offenses and 15 for the federal tax crimes. Legal experts suggest that prosecutors may push for a plea deal in exchange for cooperation or restitution.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Nick Fleming remains in custody, with bail set at $250,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for next week Thursday. Public and media attention continues to mount as many await further details of what could become one of the most high-profile legal sagas in recent years.
