Shakira is reportedly accusing the Spanish prosecutors who sued her for tax fraud of launching a “smear campaign” against her.
The Grammy winner, 45, argued the authorities “violated her right to privacy” by handling matters so publicly and without the presumption of innocence, according to documents obtained by TMZ on Friday.
Shakira’s legal team reportedly also laid out the reasons why she is not liable for the tax bill, alleging that she was not a resident of Spain during the time period in question.
According to Spanish law, the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer only has to pay taxes if she spends 183 days or more in the European country in one single year.
In September, a Spanish judge ordered Shakira to stand trial for allegedly failing to pay $13.9 million in taxes on income she earned between 2012 and 2014.
If found guilty, the “Voice” coach could face up to eight years in prison and a hefty $24 million fine.
However, Shakira denies that she was a full-time resident of Spain from 2012 to 2014 and actually paid $10,141,075 in taxes to the US government, per TMZ.
Prosecutors reportedly claim, though, that the “Voice” judge declared herself as a Spanish tax resident in 2015 after settling there with her now-former partner, Gerard Pique, and their two sons, Milan, 9, and Sasha, 7.
The Colombian-born singer and Spanish soccer star, 35, announced their breakup in June after more than a decade together.
“We regret to confirm that we are separating,” a statement released by Shakira’s public relations firm read.
“For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy. Thank you for your understanding.”
Following the split, the “Whenever, Wherever” singer reportedly has plans to move to Miami with her two kids.
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