The Colombian singer is accused of not paying taxes between 2012 and 2014, totaling 14.5 million euros ($15 million). According to Shakira’s publicists, she has always cooperated with authorities.
Due to her response to prosecutors, Spanish courts will need to set a trial date and decide whether to hold a trial.
There are six charges against Shakira in the indictment. Prosecutors offered the singer a settlement deal this week, but she rejected it, opting instead for a trial. There has yet to be a trial date set.
Prosecutors said on Friday that Shakira is expected to receive an eight-year and two-month prison sentence in Spain if convicted in her alleged tax fraud trial.
The Spanish government is accusing Shakira of owing $15 million in taxes between 2012 and 2014. Her full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll. Additionally, the prosecutors said they would seek a fine of 24 million euros ($24 million).
Her London publicists said in a Friday statement that “Shakira has always cooperated and abided by the law, demonstrating impeccable conduct as an individual and a taxpayer.” Her publicists alleged that the Spanish Tax Agency violated her rights.
Shakira’s Spanish PR team confirmed earlier this week that the artist deposited the money, including interest, she allegedly owes.
Prosecutors accuse the Grammy winner in Barcelona of spending more than half of each year in Spain between 2012 and 2014.
She has two children with FC Barcelona star Gerard Piqué, with whom she recently ended an 11-year relationship. Barcelona was the family's former home.
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