Shakira settles tax fraud case after facing 8 years in prison if convicted
BARCELONA, SPAIN: Shakira reached a settlement on her high-profile tax bill with Spanish authorities on the first day of her trial on Monday, November 20, in Barcelona.
According to ET Online, the Colombian pop sensation told presiding judge Jose Manuel del Amo that she agreed to a deal that includes a three-year suspended sentence and a hefty fine of $7.5 million.
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What charges were brought against Shakira?
The “Hips Don’t Lie” singer is charged with six counts of tax fraud for allegedly failing to pay $15.8 million in income taxes between 2012 and 2014.
If convicted, she faces up to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $26 million.
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Shakira said she agreed to settle the case for the sake of her children.
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Following Monday’s trial, Shakira shared her decision to settle the case in favor of her children.
“Although I was determined to defend my innocence in a court that my lawyers were confident would rule in my favor, I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter in the best interests of my children who do not want to see their children.” . In this fight, mom sacrifices her personal well-being,” she said.
“I need to get over the stress and emotional toll of the last few years and focus on what I love – my children and all the opportunities that will come up in my career, including an upcoming world tour and my new album, both of which I’m very excited about.”
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“I have enormous admiration for those who fought this injustice to the end, but for me, victory today is giving back time for my children and my career,” the 46-year-old said.
Shakira declared her innocence in the tax fraud case
Although Shakira agreed to settle the case, she maintained her innocence. “Throughout my career, I have always strived to do the right thing and set a positive example for others,” the singer said.
She went on to criticize the Spanish tax authorities, saying they “brought a case against me, as they have against many professional athletes and other high-profile individuals, draining the energy, time and peace of mind of these people for years.”
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According to prosecutors, Shakira’s main place of residence was in Spain, but she indicated it as another place to avoid paying taxes between 2012 and 2014.
According to Spanish law, persons residing in Spain for more than six months are considered residents for tax purposes.
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