Singer Shakira Reaches Deal With Spanish Prosecutors On First Day Of Tax Fraud Trial
OAN’s James Meyers
10:55 AM – Monday, November 20, 2023
Singer and performer Shakira has reached an agreement with Spanish authorities on the first day of her tax fraud trial.
In a Barcelona courtroom on Thursday, Shakira told the presiding magistrate, Jose Manuel del Amo, that she accepted the agreement reached with prosecutors, avoiding the risk of a prison sentence for tax evasion.
Shakira acknowledged six counts of failing to pay the Spanish government 14.5 million euros ($15.8 million) in taxes between 2012 and 2014.
With the agreement, the famous pop star will receive a suspended three-year sentence and a fine of 7 million euros ($7.6 million).
The trial, which would have included over 100 witnesses over the next several weeks, only lasted a total of eight minutes.
In July, prosecutors said that they would seek a prison sentence of eight years and a fine for 24 million euros ($26 million) for Shakira.
The case hinged on where the pop star lived during that period. Prosecutors in Barcelona have alleged that she lived in Spain during that time and therefore should have paid taxes in Spain rather than the Bahamas where her official residence was at the time. Tax rates are also a lot lower in the Bahamas in comparison to Spain.
Shakira said she had “always strived to do what’s right and set a positive example for others,” following her court appearance.
She added, “While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favour, I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight.”
The singer performed on Thursday at the Latin Grammys in Seville, Spain, thanking her fans for “being with me in the good times and the bad.”
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What does Shakira’s tax evasion case highlight about the responsibility of individuals, especially celebrities, to pay taxes
Ith the Spanish tax authorities in order to avoid further legal proceedings and move forward with my life and career.”
Shakira’s tax evasion case has been closely followed by the media and her millions of fans around the world. Many have expressed their support for the singer throughout the trial, believing that she made an honest mistake and should not face severe punishment.
The agreement reached with Spanish prosecutors not only spares Shakira from serving any jail time, but it also allows her to continue her successful career without the burden of a lengthy legal battle. The heavy fines she will have to pay, however, serve as a reminder that tax evasion is a serious offense with significant consequences.
This high-profile case raises important questions about tax responsibility and the obligations of individuals, especially celebrities, to pay their fair share. It highlights the need for transparency and clarity in tax laws and regulations to ensure that everyone is held accountable for their financial obligations.
While Shakira’s case may have reached a resolution, it is likely to spark further discussions and debates about tax evasion and the treatment of high-profile individuals in legal matters. The public will continue to closely monitor how authorities handle similar cases in the future and whether there is consistency in applying the law.
In conclusion, Shakira’s agreement with Spanish prosecutors on the first day of her tax fraud trial marks a significant development in the case. It allows her to avoid a prison sentence and continue her career, but at the cost of heavy fines. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of tax responsibility and the consequences of tax evasion. It also highlights the need for clear and fair tax laws that apply to all individuals, regardless of their celebrity status. As the case concludes, discussions and debates about tax evasion and the treatment of high-profile individuals are likely to continue.
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