Shakira reached a deal with Spanish prosecutors to avoid prison. How much will the singer accused of tax fraud pay

Shakira also received a three-year prison sentence, which will be commuted to a financial penalty, according to the terms of the agreement concluded between the singer and the prosecutor’s office and detailed by the court.

In other words, Shakira will have to pay 432,000 euros in total, 400 euros for each day she should have spent behind bars.

Before the trial, the Spanish prosecutor’s office requested a sentence of eight years and two months in prison and a fine of 23.8 million euros.

The singer reached an agreement with Spanish prosecutors to avoid a trial for tax evasion.

In front of the judge, Shakira changed her mind and admitted her guilt

The international pop star, known for hits such as “Waka Waka” and “Hips Dont Lie”, appeared in person at Barcelona District Court on Monday, which was to be the first day of a 12-day trial.

After long maintaining her innocence, she admitted to the judge that she defrauded the Spanish tax authorities of a total of 14.5 million euros ($15.8 million) between 2012 and 2014.

The 46-year-old artist will thus have to pay several million euros in addition to the outstanding taxes she has already paid.

Before Monday’s appearance, the singer claimed that between 2012 and 2014 she was a resident of the Bahamas. She claimed she was only in Spain to visit her then-partner, footballer Gerard Piqué. The couple, who have two children, have since separated.

Shakira stated that only since 2015 has she lived permanently in Barcelona, ​​adding that in the meantime she has paid all the taxes, plus interest.

Explanations of the artist

In a statement to PA Media, Shakira said she was ready to “get over the stress and emotional burden” caused by the case. “Throughout my career, I have always strived to do what is right and set a positive example for others,” she said.

“This often meant going the extra mile in business and personal financial decisions to get the best advice. Unfortunately, and despite these efforts, the tax authorities in Spain conducted an investigation against me, as they have done against many professional athletes and other personalities, draining the accounts, energy, time and peace of these people for years. , Shakira added.

“Although I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my attorneys were confident would end in my favor, I made the decision to ultimately resolve this matter in the best interests of my beloved children, who will not to see his mother sacrificing her personal well-being in this fight”, said the Colombian singer.

“I need to overcome the stress and emotional burden of the last few years and focus on the things I love: my children and all the opportunities that will come my way in my career, including my upcoming world tour and my new album, which I am extremely excited about Shakira also said.

Photo: Profimedia Images

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