In recent years, famous pop singer Shakira has faced allegations of tax evasion in Spain. Rumors have spread that she could end up serving time in prison as a result. In this article, we’ll explore the tax evasion case against Shakira and look at whether she is likely to serve any jail time.
Background on Shakira’s Tax Issues in Spain
Shakira has faced legal trouble in Spain over allegations of tax evasion since 2018. Here’s a brief overview of the case:
- Shakira officially moved to Barcelona in 2011 when she began a relationship with Spanish soccer star Gerard Piqué. However, she maintained a residence in the Bahamas.
- In 2018, Spanish tax authorities accused Shakira of failing to pay 14.5 million euros ($15.5 million) in taxes between 2012 and 2014. They argue she was a resident of Spain during those years despite having an official residence in the Bahamas.
- Shakira claims she did not live in Spain enough during those years to qualify as a resident for tax purposes. She says she was busy traveling for work.
- Spanish tax authorities claim Shakira spent more than 180 days per year in Spain and therefore should have paid Spanish income taxes.
So in summary, Spain claims Shakira lived there enough during 2012-2014 that she should have paid taxes, while Shakira denies being a legal resident during those years. This disagreement is at the center of the tax evasion accusations.
What Crimes Is Shakira Accused of in Spain?
Spanish prosecutors have accused Shakira of six separate counts of tax fraud:
| Alleged Crime | Year |
|---|---|
| Failing to pay income taxes | 2012 |
| Failing to pay income taxes | 2013 |
| Failing to pay income taxes | 2014 |
| Failing to pay wealth taxes | 2012-2014 |
| Failing to pay taxes on ownership of assets | 2012-2014 |
As shown in the table, Shakira stands accused of three counts of failing to pay income taxes from 2012-2014. Prosecutors also allege she did not pay required wealth taxes or taxes on assets she owned during those years.
Altogether, the unpaid taxes are estimated at 14.5 million euros. Under Spanish law, the crimes carry a potential fine and prison sentence if Shakira is convicted.
What Punishment Could Shakira Face If Convicted?
Each of the six counts Shakira is charged with carry potential fines and jail time under Spanish tax law:
- Failing to pay income taxes – A fine of 100% to 150% of the unpaid tax plus potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years.
- Failing to pay wealth taxes – A fine of 100% to 150% of unpaid tax plus potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years.
- Failing to pay taxes on ownership of assets – A fine of 100% to 150% unpaid tax plus potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 months.
Based on the estimated 14.5 million euros of unpaid taxes, if convicted on all counts Shakira could face over 20 million euros in fines. She could also potentially face up to 8 years of prison time based on the sentences for each charge, although the terms would likely run concurrently.
However, it is highly unlikely Shakira would receive the maximum punishment. Spain’s tax authorities seem focused on recouping the unpaid taxes plus fines rather than pursuing a prison sentence.
Is Shakira Actually Likely to Go to Prison?
While Shakira technically could go to prison if convicted, most experts agree the chance of jail time is very low. Here’s why:
- Spain rarely pursues prison time in tax evasion cases. Even when convicted, first-time offenders often receive suspended sentences or avoid prison.
- Shakira has no prior criminal record and would be considered a first-time tax offender.
- Shakira has already paid the unpaid tax amount of 14.5 million euros. This good faith gesture makes harsh punishment less likely.
- Her legal team is negotiating with prosecutors to try to avoid going to trial. A settlement would likely not include jail time.
So in summary, while Shakira’s actions could warrant prison based on Spanish law, the circumstances of her case and Spain’s tendency towards lighter punishment for tax evasion mean Shakira is highly unlikely to actually serve time behind bars. Her fame and first-time offender status work heavily in her favor.
Conclusion: Shakira Unlikely to See Prison Time
Based on the available evidence, pop star Shakira is highly unlikely to receive any jail sentence despite technically facing the possibility under Spanish law. While the tax evasion accusations are serious, Spain rarely imprisons first-time offenders who are cooperating and attempting to repay unpaid taxes.
Shakira has already paid the 14.5 million euros in back taxes and is negotiating with prosecutors, suggesting she will ultimately reach a settlement rather than stand trial. While Shakira isn’t completely out of the woods yet, her prospects for avoiding prison time remain extremely strong.