Rep. Bennie Thompson’s chief of staff Isaac Lanier Avant has pleaded guilty for failing to file tax returns for five years.

Avant claimed in 2005 that he was exempt from paying income tax. Avant earned $165,000 between 2008 and 2013, the five years that he did not file timely tax returns

In addition, Avant filed returns with false deductions in 2006 and 2007, according to the Clarion-Ledger.

Avant agreed to pay $153,522 in restitution. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 17.