Shakira tax fraud: Spanish court orders pop star to stand trial
Shakira faces more than 8 years in prison and a $24 million euro fine in connection with tax fraud allegations
A Spanish court ordered pop star Shakira to stand trial for a tax fraud case that could land her in prison for more than 8 years Tuesday.
Shakira, 45, is accused of defrauding the Spanish government out of 14.5 million euros ($15 million) in taxes between 2012 and 2014. The "Hips Don't Lie" singer argues she spent less than half of each of those years inside of Spain.
A judge in Barcelona has now ordered her to appear for trial, though a date for proceedings has not been set.
The megastar rejected a plea deal in the case earlier this year, opening her up to a potential sentence of 8 years and two months in prison, as well as a fine of $24 million euros if convicted.
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Shakira attends the screening of "Elvis" during the 75th annual Cannes film festival at Palais des Festivals on May 25, 2022 in Cannes, France. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Shakira lors du 75e festival de Cannes le 25 mai 2022. (Photo by Laurent KOFFEL/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images) (Getty Images / Getty Images)
Representatives for Shakira expressed confidence in her case in a statement to Fox News Digital in late July.
"Shakira has always cooperated and abided by the law, demonstrating impeccable conduct as an individual and a taxpayer and faithfully following the counsel of PriceWaterhouse Coopers, a prestigious and globally recognized tax firm," the representative said.
"Unfortunately, the Spanish Tax Office, which loses one out of every two lawsuits with its taxpayers, continues to violate her rights and pursue yet another baseless case. Shakira is confident that her innocence will be proven by the end of the judicial process," the statement continued.
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The alleged fraud took place during her 11-year relationship with professional soccer player Gerard Pique, who plays for Barcelona. The pair split in June but have two children together.
Shakira and Gerard Piqué, pictured here, before their shocking split. (Getty Images / Getty Images)
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Shakira, originally from Colombia, has already repaid the $15 million she owed the Spanish government.