Shakira Settles Tax Fraud Case with Spanish Authorities, Avoids Prison

Colombian pop superstar Shakira has been fined £6.4 million as part of a deal to avoid a three-year prison sentence and put an end to a tax fraud trial in Barcelona. The singer confessed to six tax fraud crimes and has already repaid the £15 million in taxes she was accused of dodging. In addition to the fine, she will pay £378,000 to avoid jail time. Shakira criticized the Spanish authorities for pursuing her, stating that her case was similar to those of other high-profile individuals. The trial was expected to run until December 14, but a settlement was reached before it began.