Spanish Judge Rules Shakira Could Stand Trial In Tax Evasion Case

A Barcelona judge ruled that Shakira could stand trial for tax evasion. The pop star is accused of using a series of companies based in off-shore tax havens to hide assets and avoid paying €14.5 million, almost $17 million, in taxes. 

Judge Marco Jesus Juberias wrote in the ruling that Shakira spent more than 200 days in Spain in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Spanish tax code says that anyone that lives in the country more than 183 in any given year is responsible for paying taxes in Spain. Shakira maintains her visits to Barcelona were “sporadic.”

The singer also has a home in Spain with her longtime boyfriend, soccer player Gerard Pique. The couple has two children together. But, the Colombian pop star’s team argued that her primary residence is in the Bahamas. 

“This is an expected step in this process,” a rep for Shakira told CNN. “The legal team maintains its trust and collaboration with the Justice and won’t offer any further comments on this matter.”

If found guilty, Shakira could face prison time. However, a judge can waive prison time for non-violent, first-time offenders if the sentence is less than two years in Spain.