Background
Clarkson graduated from Clemson University with a B.A. in Economics in 1969, then served with the 25th Infantry Division as platoon leader in Vietnam 1970-71, for which he has made claims of post-traumatic stress disorder. He graduated from the University of South Carolina Law School in 1974 and was a member of the South Carolina bar until 1978, when he was disbarred for stealing from an elderly client.
Theories Advocated/Promoted
There is no law making anyone liable for the income tax;
Wages are not income subject to tax.
Books, Web Sites, Videos, and Other Publications
The Patriot Network website: http://www.patriotnetwork.info
Court Actions
As noted above, Clarkson was disbarred from the practice of law in 1978. In the Matter of Clarkson, 271 S.C. 5, 244 S.E.2d 512 (1978). In 2004, the South Carolina Supreme Court found that he had continued to practice law through his "Patriot Network," found him in criminal contempt, and ordered him to stop or face immediate imprisonment. http://www.judicial.state.sc.us/opinions/displayOrder.cfm?orderNo=94
In April of 1994, Clarkson and two associates were indicted for conspiracy to impede, impair, obstruct and defeat the functions of the Internal Revenue Service under 18 U.S.C. ยง 371. All three were convicted, and they were sentenced to 57 months in prison. United States v. Clarkson, No. 5:1994cr00010 (W.D.N.C. 1994), aff'd sum nom. Fleschner v. United States, 98 F.3d 155, 96-2 U.S. Tax Cas. (CCH) paragr. 50,536 (4th Cir. 1996), cert. denied, 117 S. Ct. 2484 (1997).
Most recently, Clarkson has been permanently enjoined from promoting his tax schemes. United States v. Robert Barnwell Clarkson, 2007 TNT 135-15, No. 8:05-cv-02734-HMH (U.S.D.C. S.C. 7/3/2007).
Students/Disciples
Clarkson has done business as "The Patriot Network," but whether there are other members of the "network" is not known.