Pop star has allegedly committed tax evasion
Prosecutors in Spain are seeking a long prison sentence for Colombian pop star Shakira in their case against her alleged tax evasion. If convicted, the prosecuting attorney is seeking an eight year and two month prison sentence for not paying two years worth of taxes, according to the Associate Press. They are also seeking a fine of 24 million euroes ($24 million).
In 2018, Shakira was charged with defrauding the Spanish government of 14.5 million euros ($15 million) in taxes between 2012-2014. Prosecutors in Barcelona have alleged the Grammy winner spent more than half of each year in Spain and should have taxes in the country.
The indictment details six charges against the singer, who opted to go to trial instead of accepting an undisclosed settlement deal.
The singer’s publicist says she “has always cooperated and abided by the law, demonstrating impeccable conduct as an individual and a taxpayer.” They also accuse the Spanish Tax Agency of violating the singer’s rights.
Earlier in the week, Shakira’s Spanish public relations team said the artist has deposited the amount she owes, including interest of three million euros. They also state the singer “trusts her innocence and chooses to leave the issue in the hands of the law.”
A trial date has not been set.
