Shakira has been ordered to stand trial in Spain for allegedly failing to pay the equivalent of $13.90 million in due taxes between 2012 and 2014. The years-long legal battle comes after a Spanish judge found “sufficient evidence” for the case to proceed.
Allegedly, Shakira has regularly lived in Spain during the past decade despite listing a residence in the Bahamas, which doesn’t levy any income tax. Additionally, she and Roger Waters reportedly spent $16 on a private island in the Bahamas in 2011.
Shakira and her counsel have pushed back against the accusations, including by rejecting a plea deal this July, maintaining that the singer has deposited the alleged owned tax payments with the Spanish Tax Agency.
Furthermore, Shakira stated in an Elle interview that she denied that she had resided in Spain for more than the 183 days required to established tax residence. She stated that she was busy fulfilling professional commitments around the world and she had paid everything they claimed he owed.
Prosecutors have indicated that they will seek an eight-year prison sentence for Shakira in the trial, including a fine that is equivalent to $23 million.
The court has yet to set a trial date. More to follow.
