Pop star Shakira will stand trial for tax fraud, which could land her in prison for more than 8 years, according to a Spanish court on Tuesday.
It is alleged that Shakira defrauded the Spanish government of 14.5 million euros ($15 million) between 2012 and 2014. According to her, she spent less than half of each year inside Spain.
The judge in Barcelona has now ordered her to appear for trial, but the date has not been set.
Earlier this year, the megastar rejected a plea deal, leaving her open to an 8-year prison sentence and a $24 million fine if convicted.
Shakira’s representatives expressed confidence in her case 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.
It is alleged that the fraud took place during her 11-year relationship with Barcelona soccer player Gerard Pique. They split in June, but have two children together.
Originally from Colombia, Shakira has already repaid the Spanish government $15 million.
For more on this story, please consider these sources:
- Pop singer Shakira ordered to stand trial on tax fraud charges in Spain NBC News
- Spanish court formally sends Shakira to trial for tax fraud Yahoo News
- Shakira tax fraud: Spanish court orders pop star to stand trial Fox Business
- Pop singer Shakira to face trial over tax fraud in Spain WFAA
- Shakira ordered to stand trial for tax fraud in Spain, prosecutors seek 8-year prison term New York Post