Pop sensation Shakira has reached a settlement in a tax fraud trial in Barcelona, Spain, avoiding potential jail time.
The 46-year-old singer faced accusations of defrauding the Spanish state of approximately £12.5 million ($15.6 million) in income over the years 2012 to 2014. In the surprise agreement with prosecutors, Shakira accepted a fine of around £6.4 million ($7.9 million), less than a third of the initially sought amount. The trial, which was expected to extend until mid-December, concluded abruptly with the settlement announcement.
Shakira had already repaid the alleged tax evasion amount and will now pay an additional £15 million ($18.7 million) in interest. To avoid imprisonment, she agreed to an extra fine of around £378,000 ($471,000). In a statement, the singer protested her innocence and emphasized her commitment to making ethical financial decisions, enlisting the guidance of prominent tax authorities during the process.
The settlement brings an end to the legal proceedings that had been ongoing for years.
Comments are closed.