Will Colombian pop star Shakira go to prison if found guilty of alleged tax fraud?

As Colombian pop singer Shakira has chosen to go for trial over her alleged tax fraud, she might also face jail terms if found guilty. She has been accused of failing to pay 14.5 million euros ($15 million) in taxes to Spanish government between 2012 and 2014. Meanwhile, prosecutors in Spain have stated that y would urge court to sentence her to at least 8.2 years in prison, if she is found guilty in her upcoming trial. Furr, y also declared that y will also demand a fine of 24 million euros ($24 million) fine against singer,  Associated Press (AP) reported. 

According to indictment, pop star, whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, has been charged with as many as six offences against her. Earlier this week, she also turned down a settlement deal from Spanish prosecutors and chose to go for trial inste. date of trial is yet to be decided. In a statement, Shakira's publicists in London said that she h consistently complied with law and shown exemplary character as a citizen and taxpayer. publicists also went on to accuse Spanish Tax Agency of abusing her rights. 

Shakira's PR team claims she alrey paid said amount

Meanwhile, Shakira’s Spanish public relations team claimed that singer has alrey paid amount she is alleged to owe, along with interest worth 3 million euros. However, Spanish prosecutors stressed that 45-year-old pop star should have paid taxes in country as she lived mostly in Spain between 2012 to 2014. Notably, Shakira was in a relationship with Barcelona soccer star Gerard Pique and couple also has two children. couple used to live toger in Barcelona before y recently decided to end ir 11-year-long relationship.  

Shakira ended her relationship with Spanish soccer star Gerard Pique

Earlier on June 4, Shakira released an official statement through her publicist that she has decided to part ways with her longtime boyfriend Pique. "We regret to confirm that we are parting ways. For well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect ir privacy. Thank you for your understanding,"  statement re.  announcement came after a report in El Periodico claimed that Pique was involved in ultery.

Image: Pixabay/AP