Wesley Snipes was sentenced to three years in prison yesterday.

The Hollywood actor - who owed $2.8 million in unreturned tax bills from 1999 to 2001 - was condemned by Judge William Terrell Hodges for exhibiting a “history of contempt over a period of time” for US tax laws.

Snipes, 45, apologised for his “costly mistakes” and blamed his failure to pay on his lack of education.

Speaking at the court in Ocala, Florida, Snipes said: “I am an idealistic, naive, passionate, truth-seeking, spiritually motivated artist, unschooled in the science of law and finance.

“I am well-intentioned, but miseducated”.

During the hearing, Snipes’ lawyers offered letters from the star’s family members and friends - including Hollywood actors Denzel Washington and Woody Harrelson - speaking about his good character.

They had recommended Snipes be given home detention because he had no previous criminal record.