Toni Braxton and Malik Beasley among top California tax delinquents

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, June 23, 2026

California authorities have published a list of the state’s 500 largest tax delinquents, naming celebrities such as Malik Beasley, Toni Braxton, and Carlos Mencia for owing millions in unpaid taxes. This crackdown underscores intensified efforts to combat tax evasion, with Mencia already arrested and facing possible prison time while investigations continue into others on the list.

California authorities have released a list identifying the state’s 500 largest tax delinquents, which includes several high-profile figures such as singer Toni Braxton, former NBA player Malik Beasley, and comedian Carlos Mencia.

Malik Beasley, known for his stints with NBA teams including the Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Detroit Pistons, reportedly owes approximately $1.9 million in unpaid taxes. The debt is jointly linked to Beasley and his former partner, Montana Yao, with a lien recorded in October 2025 against property in Beverly Hills. Beasley most recently played for the Puerto Rican team Cangrejeros de Santurce but was released last month. Federal authorities have launched an investigation into alleged gambling activities during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, and the NBA has initiated a separate probe. Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, emphasized that an investigation does not constitute a charge and that his client is presumed innocent under the U.S. Constitution, noting that no formal charges have been filed.

Toni Braxton, known for hits like “Un-Break My Heart,” also appears on the delinquent taxpayers list with outstanding obligations of about $438,000 to the state of California. A tax lien in her name was filed in December 2018. Braxton has faced financial challenges in recent years, including previous federal and state tax liens dating back to 2017 and two bankruptcy filings. In interviews, she has attributed some of her financial difficulties to extravagant spending habits and health issues that affected her Las Vegas residency, which led to additional financial strain.

Meanwhile, Carlos Mencia, the comedian and actor, faces more severe legal consequences. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced that Mencia is among the “500 greatest tax delinquents” in California, allegedly evading approximately $8.7 million in filings over five years. According to District Attorney Nathan Hochman, Mencia ignored 78 warning notices regarding unpaid taxes totaling around $300,000. Charges include six counts related to his personal taxes and six associated with his business operations between 2019 and 2024. Mencia was arrested early Thursday morning at his Encino residence by the DA’s newly established Business Tax Fraud Unit. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

Representatives for both Beasley and Braxton have been contacted for comment but have not issued statements at this time. The release of the tax delinquency list highlights ongoing efforts by California authorities to address tax evasion among wealthy individuals and public figures.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.