Charlie Rangel's Deadbeat Benz Sparks Ire

While you've been renting a storage bin somewhere to keep your prize 240Z "project car," House Rep. Charlie Rangel (D.-New York) has been using a spot in Washington at the House of Representatives parking garage for the same purpose, the New York Post reports.

The classic Benz has been sitting in the same spot for years, according to the paper. Rangel's currently in serial tax trouble for real-estate transactions, and now the 1972 Benz sedan's caught up in the investigation cycle, "parked in a coveted section of an indoor lot, near elevators that lead to his office," the Post says.

Wearing a classy tarp to protect it (in covered parking!) and without a current license plate, the Benz hasn't been properly registered since 2004, the paper reports.

The House says members can't use spots for more than 45 days. Rangel may end up owing taxes on the imputed income for use of the space, which costs $290 a month.

Rangel's other troubles include taxes due on vacation homes in the Dominican Republic and owning four rent-controlled apartments. His other cars include a Caddy DeVille, a Benz convertible, a 2001 Chrysler and a 1993 Ford. Charlie Rangel BenzEnlarge PhotoWhile you've been renting a storage bin somewhere to keep your prize 240Z "project car," House Rep. Charlie Rangel (D.-New York) has been using a spot in Washington at the House of Representatives parking garage for the same purpose, the New York Post reports. The classic Benz has been sitting in the same spot for years, according to the paper. Rangel's currently in serial tax trouble for real-estate transactions, and now the 1972 Benz sedan's caught up in the investigation cycle, "parked in a coveted section of an indoor lot, near elevators that lead to his office," the Post says. Wearing a classy tarp to protect it (in covered parking!) and without a current license plate, the Benz hasn't been properly registered since 2004, the paper reports. The House says members can't use spots for more than 45 days. Rangel may end up owing taxes on the imputed income for use of the space, which costs $290 a month. Rangel's other troubles include taxes due on vacation homes in the Dominican Republic and owning four rent-controlled apartments. His other cars include a Caddy DeVille, a Benz convertible, a 2001 Chrysler and a 1993 Ford.