LONDON: Pop sensation Shakira is reportedly exploring diplomatic avenues to address the looming tax fraud case against her. According to The Sun‘s report, the “Dare” songstress is seeking a mutual agreement with prosecutors as her trial, involving six counts of tax fraud during the early 2010s, commences on Monday.
The charges allege that Shakira failed to pay approximately 13 million in taxes while residing in Spain from 2012 to 2014. The 46-year-old artist vehemently denies the accusations, asserting that she was not obligated to pay taxes during that period as she was a resident of the Bahamas.
Tax Fraud Allegations Against Shakira
Despite Shakira’s defense, state prosecutors argue that the singer, and ex-girlfriend of Gerard Piqué, “lived on a regular basis in Spain and remained in the country most of the year.” If convicted, Shakira could potentially face eight years behind bars.
In an effort to safeguard her reputation and avoid imprisonment, Shakira is reportedly considering admitting to the charges, as revealed by Spanish newspaper El Mundo. The outlet suggests a potential agreement where Shakira would acknowledge the wrongdoing, pay a substantial fine, and receive a prison sentence of less than two years, which may not be served due to her clean criminal record in Spain.
