Disgruntled employees soon raised several charges of tax evasion, kickbacks, extortion, and the like against Leona, and the charges of tax evasion struck. She spent millions of dollars overhauling her mansions and luxuries, and claimed them against the profits of the hotel chain. Her personal maid testified against her, and her much-derided quote that "only the little people pay taxes" led her to spend 21 months in prison and fines.