Prosecutors in Spain accuse Shakira of more tax fraud

Sept. 26 (UPI) -- Spanish prosecutors released new charges Tuesday against Shakira, alleging the Colombian singer failed to pay $6.4 million in taxes in 2018. The charges come two months before she is to stand trial on earlier tax fraud charges.

The criminal complaint filed by prosecutors in Barcelona says Shakira didn't report all of her income in 2018, when she lived in Barcelona with former soccer star Gerard Piqué and their two children, El Pais reported. The couple ended their 11-year relationship last year.

Prosecutors accused Shakira, who currently lives in Miami, of consciously and voluntarily submitting false personal income tax and wealth tax declarations, El Mundo reported.

The complaint alleges the singer used a series of "simulated contracts" to transfer music rights, diverting a portion of her income to offshore companies.

"Shakira maintained at all times full availability and control over her own music rights," the complaint states.

The Higher Court of Justice of Catalonia announced the investigation in July, saying prosecutors alleged two counts of tax fraud in 2018.

Shakira was indicted last year on separate charges in Spain alleging she didn't pay nearly $14.8 million in taxes between 2012 and 2014.

She faces the possibility of eight years in prison and a fine of nearly $24.5 million if convicted in that case after rejecting a settlement offer. She has maintained her innocence.

"I am confident that I have enough proof to support my case and that justice will prevail in my favor," she told Elle magazine last year.