Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, infamous for claiming vaccines make people magnetic and interfere with cell phone towers and menstrual cycles, now faces a federal lawsuit for tax evasion. With her medical license suspended and over 350 complaints lodged against her, Tenpenny’s clash with authorities is escalating. The state’s medical board has offered to reinstate her license if she pays a fine and cooperates with investigators.
Cleveland Doctor Sued by Federal Government
Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, a Cleveland physician who claimed vaccines made people “magnetic,” is now facing a federal lawsuit. The government accuses her of failing to pay $650,000 in taxes and late fees.
DOJ Files Lawsuit Against Tenpenny
The Department of Justice has taken legal action against Tenpenny in the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. They allege she neglected to pay taxes for the years 2001, 2012, and 2013.
Accumulated Penalties Add Up
The DOJ claims that, with penalties and fees included, Tenpenny’s total debt amounts to $646,929.82. This significant sum reflects years of alleged non-compliance.
Tenpenny’s Response to Allegations
Tenpenny has publicly stated that she is being unfairly targeted by federal authorities. She insists she has made multiple efforts over the years to resolve her tax issues.
Accusations of Harassment
Tenpenny argues that the IRS has been harassing her for 23 years. She believes the ongoing legal battles are a form of targeted harassment.
Previous Attempts to Resolve Debt
Court filings reveal that Tenpenny previously made offers to compromise and set up installment agreements. However, taxes for three specific years remain unpaid, according to the DOJ.
Ongoing Legal Battle
The DOJ lawsuit asserts that Tenpenny still owes nearly $647,000 plus additional statutory charges. They highlight her continued failure to settle these debts despite multiple notices.
Seeking Political Support
Praised by anti-vaccine advocates, Tenpenny has sought assistance from Republican Senator JD Vance. Her controversial stance on Covid-19 vaccines brought her into the political spotlight in 2021.
Testimony on Vaccine Legislation
In 2021, Tenpenny testified in favor of Ohio legislation aimed at blocking mask mandates and vaccine requirements. Her statements included various conspiracy theories that garnered significant attention.
Controversial Claims About Vaccines
Dr. Sherri Tenpenny claimed that vaccines made people magnetic and could interface with cell phone towers. She also alleged that vaccines disrupted women’s menstrual cycles, spreading misinformation widely.
State Medical Board Complaints
Following her disinformation campaign, around 350 complaints were lodged against Tenpenny with the state’s medical board. An investigation was initiated, but Tenpenny refused to cooperate, denouncing the probe as an “illegal fishing expedition.”
Suspension of Medical License
As a result of her non-cooperation, Tenpenny’s medical license was suspended in 2023. This action followed her continued defiance in the face of the investigation.
Conditions for Reinstatement
In a recent decision, the state’s medical board voted to reinstate Tenpenny’s license under specific conditions. She must pay a $3,000 fine and agree to cooperate with ongoing investigations.
