Colombian pop singer Shakira is fighting back against tax evasion claims.
The Hips Don't Lie singer has rejected a deal offered by Spanish prosecutors to settle allegations she defrauded Spain's government of €14.5 million ($23.6m) in taxes, with representatives for the singer confirming earlier this week that she has opted to go to trial instead.
Speaking to E! News, a representative for the star said the Whenever, Wherever singer "has always cooperated and abided by the law, demonstrating impeccable conduct as an individual and a taxpayer, and faithfully following the counsel of PriceWaterhouse Coopers, a prestigious and globally recognised tax firm".
The rep added the Spanish Tax Office "continues to violate her rights" and called the case against her "baseless".
"Shakira is confident that her innocence will be proven by the end of the judicial process."