Spanish prosecutors said on Friday they would seek a prison sentence of more than eight years against global music superstar Shakira, after she rejected a plea deal on allegations of tax evasion.
Barcelona prosecutors will also demand a fine of nearly 24 million euros ($24.5 million) from the 45-year-old “Hips don’t Lie” singer, whom they accuse of defrauding the Spanish Treasury of 14.5 million euros. euros on the income obtained. between 2012 and 2014.
Shakira, who has sold more than 60 million albums, turned down a plea deal on Wednesday, saying in a statement through her lawyers that she was “absolutely certain of her innocence” and had decided to take the case to court, “certainly “That his innocence would be proven.
A formal referral to court has not yet been announced, nor has a trial date been set.
Lawyers for Shakira, one of the biggest names in the global music industry, say a settlement is possible until the start of any trial.
Prosecutors say Shakira moved to Spain in 2011 when her relationship with FC Barcelona defender Gerard Pique was made public, but kept her official tax residence in the Bahamas until 2015. The couple, who share two children, announced their separation in June.
On Wednesday, the star criticized the “total violation of her rights” and the “abusive methods” carried out by the prosecution.
Shakira has failed to reach an agreement with the Spanish prosecutor’s office on charges of tax evasion, and will go to trial insisting on her innocence.
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