Shakira settled the tax fraud case with a deal.

The Columbian Popstar Shakira avoids the trial of her tax fraud case by settling with the Spanish authorities. They accused the singer of not paying the income taxes of 14.5 Million euros ($15.8 Million) between 2012 and 2014. She continuously denied all the charges, but if found guilty, she could end up in jail for up to eight years.

However she reached a deal with the Spanish authorities to avoid the trial. Under the deal, she will receive a three-year suspended sentence and a fine of 7 million euros ($7.6 million).

Shakira said, “While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favor, I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight. I need to move past the stress and emotional toll of the last several years and focus on the things I love — my kids and all the opportunities to come in my career, including my upcoming world tour and my new album, both of which I am extremely excited about. I admire tremendously those who have fought these injustices to the end, but for me, today, winning is getting my time back for my kids and my career.”

Its not the first time when Spanish government has cracked down celebrities for not paying their taxes. In the past, Spanish authorities charged soccer stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who were found guilty, but avoided prison time with suspended sentences.

Published by HOLR Magazine