LOGIN

Pop star Shakira reaches a deal with Spanish prosecutors on the first day of tax fraud trial

by Andrew Wright
5 comments
Shakira Tax Fraud Settlement

Renowned pop star Shakira has reached an agreement with Spanish prosecutors, bringing an unexpected resolution to her tax fraud trial in Barcelona on its opening day. After previously maintaining her innocence for nearly five years, Shakira chose to accept the terms negotiated with the prosecutors. This agreement entails her acknowledgment of six counts of failing to pay 14.5 million euros (approximately $15.8 million) in taxes to the Spanish government between 2012 and 2014.

As per the terms of the deal, Shakira will receive a suspended three-year sentence and be required to pay a fine of 7.3 million euros ($8 million). Additionally, she will make another payment of 432,000 euros ($472,000) in exchange for her suspended sentence. This resolution led to the trial being abruptly called off, which would have originally included testimony from over 100 witnesses spanning several weeks.

Prosecutors had initially sought a much harsher punishment, including an eight-year, two-month prison sentence and a fine of 24 million euros ($26 million). This legal battle centered on Shakira’s residence during the disputed period from 2012 to 2014. Prosecutors argued that, despite her official residence being in the Bahamas, Shakira had spent more than half of her time in Spain and should have paid taxes on her worldwide income there. The Bahamas’ significantly lower tax rates had seemingly incentivized her offshore tax arrangement.

In a statement issued through her public relations firm, Shakira expressed her rationale for settling the case: “I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight.” She emphasized her desire to move past the stress and emotional toll of recent years and focus on her family and career.

Shakira had previously declined a settlement offer from prosecutors in July 2022, citing her belief in her innocence and her trust in the legal process. Her inclusion in the “Paradise Papers” leaks had shed light on her offshore tax arrangements, similar to other high-profile individuals in the music industry.

While this particular trial has concluded, Shakira still faces a separate investigation related to alleged tax evasion of 6.7 million euros on her 2018 income. It is evident that her legal troubles with Spain’s tax authorities are not yet fully resolved.

In closing, the pop sensation, whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, has experienced a tumultuous journey through the Spanish legal system, ultimately choosing to settle the tax fraud case to prioritize her family and career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Shakira Tax Fraud Settlement

What was the outcome of Shakira’s tax fraud trial in Barcelona?

Shakira reached a last-minute agreement with prosecutors on the opening day of her trial. She accepted six counts of failing to pay 14.5 million euros in taxes and received a suspended three-year sentence plus fines.

Why did the trial abruptly end after just eight minutes?

The trial was called off because Shakira and prosecutors reached a settlement agreement, avoiding the need for a lengthy court proceeding with over 100 witnesses.

What were the original charges and potential penalties against Shakira?

Initially, prosecutors sought an eight-year, two-month prison sentence and a fine of 24 million euros. They accused Shakira of failing to pay taxes on her income between 2012 and 2014.

What was the main issue in this tax fraud case?

The case revolved around Shakira’s residency during the disputed period. Prosecutors argued that she should have paid taxes in Spain due to her substantial time spent there, despite her official residence being in the Bahamas, known for lower tax rates.

Why did Shakira decide to settle the case?

Shakira cited the best interests of her children and her own well-being as reasons for settling. She expressed a desire to move past the emotional toll of the legal battle and focus on her family and career.

What is the significance of the “Paradise Papers” in this case?

The “Paradise Papers” leaks revealed offshore tax arrangements of various high-profile individuals, including Shakira, shedding light on her financial affairs.

Does Shakira still face legal issues related to taxes?

Yes, she faces a separate investigation regarding alleged tax evasion of 6.7 million euros on her 2018 income. Her legal troubles with Spanish tax authorities are not entirely resolved.

More about Shakira Tax Fraud Settlement

You may also like

5 comments

LegalEagle22 November 20, 2023 - 8:37 pm

Tax cases complicated, residency matters, Spain still checking her

Reply
GossipGirl November 20, 2023 - 10:34 pm

She and Piqué split, now she’s in Miami, drama never ends!

Reply
Reader01 November 21, 2023 - 12:16 am

omg, Shakira’s tax fraud case like whoa, she settle it so fast, no trial, big fine, crazy!

Reply
NewsJunkie87 November 21, 2023 - 4:17 am

Paradise Papers, celebs & taxes, wow, messy financials everywhere

Reply
MusicFan99 November 21, 2023 - 2:05 pm

poor Shakira, so much stress, fam & career comes 1st, deal with tax stuff later

Reply

Leave a Comment

BNB – Big Big News is a news portal that offers the latest news from around the world. BNB – Big Big News focuses on providing readers with the most up-to-date information from the U.S. and abroad, covering a wide range of topics, including politics, sports, entertainment, business, health, and more.

Editors' Picks

Latest News