Spanish prosecutors have recently dismissed tax fraud charges against singer Shakira and her partner Pique, once again putting them in the spotlight.
After reaching a separate tax dispute settlement with Spanish authorities a few months ago, this decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal saga surrounding the court cases of Shakira.
A Spanish investigative magistrate officially halted the case on Thursday, May 9.
Reportedly off the hook, Shakira's legal battles seem to be easing up after the recent resolution with Spanish authorities.
The dropped charges follow her settlement with Spanish authorities.
In a recent statement, the court emphasized that there is no indication proving that Shakira Isabel M. R. consciously and voluntarily omitted tax-relevant information and documentation.
This assertion sheds light on the tax fraud charges leveled against the singer in September, specifically linked to her 2018 income filings.
Allegedly, the award-winning singer was accused of failing to pay approximately $7.2 million in taxes for that year by utilizing an offshore company situated in a tax haven.
Shakira's legal journey continues amidst ongoing scrutiny, with the star vehemently denying any wrongdoing.
Despite the allegations, a representative for Shakira, who has remained steadfast in her defence, has not immediately responded to requests for comment from PEOPLE Magazine.
State prosecutors dropped Shakira's court cases one day after recommending an investigating judge do so due to "not sufficient evidence" of the crime.
According to the AP, the ruling will be final if not appealed within a week.
In a separate Shakira court case, the singer reached a settlement with Spanish authorities in November.
This followed accusations of six counts of tax fraud, alleging failure to pay about $15.8 million in income tax between 2012 and 2014, which Shakira denies.
The deal in the Shakira court case included a three-year suspended sentence and a $7.5 million fine.
Although Shakira initially faced up to eight years in jail and a fine of up to $26 million if found guilty, they avoided harsher penalties.
Following her split with her ex-husband Pique, Shakira's legal battles led the singer to state, "While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial, I have decided to resolve this matter with my kids' best interest at heart."
She acknowledged her lawyers' confidence in a favorable ruling but prioritized her family's well-being.
Expressing her desire to move forward, Shakira emphasized, "I need to focus on my children and upcoming career endeavors."
Despite settling, she maintained her innocence, citing her consistent efforts to set a positive example throughout her career.
Shakira criticized Spanish tax authorities for pursuing her case, asserting they have targeted numerous high-profile individuals, including professional athletes like herself and her partner Pique. She highlighted the draining effects of such prolonged legal battles on individuals' energy, time, and peace of mind.