Judge Rules Shakira Should Go to Trial For Tax Evasion, Singer Faces Jail Time After Being Accused Of Failing To Pay $16.4 Million
July 29 2021, Published 12:06 p.m. ET
Shakira's hips don't lie, but they might not be able to keep her out of jail.
The 44-year-old singer faces potential time behind bars after a judge ruled the singer should go to trial for tax evasion in Spain.
After a three-year investigation, Judge Marco Juberías declared on Thursday that there is enough evidence to take her case to trial.
Judge Juberías said he found “sufficient evidence of criminality" and recommended the case go to the next step -- a trial judge.
In 2019, Shakira was charged with failing to pay 14.5 million euros -- which is $16.4 million -- in taxes to Spain between 2012 and 2014, despite living in the country most of that time.
Shakira testified three years ago and denied any wrongdoing.
The Waka Waka singer reportedly paid what was owed after she was given the bill by the Tax Office, claims her public relations firm.
Shakira's three Grammys won't help her situation.
The star faces a possible fine and potential jail time if she's found guilty of tax evasion.