Cristiano Ronaldo might face five year's imprisonment over alleged tax fraud offences
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Ronaldo plays for Real Madrid in La Liga. File Pic[/caption]
Internet Desk: Portuguese star forward Cristiano Ronaldo possibly have to face charges after being accused of cheating the Spanish government of €600,000.
The 31-year old has helped Real Madrid win their first La Liga title since 2012. This season was indeed remarkable for him. He also assisted them in reaching the Champions League final. However, off grounds, Ronaldo has landed himself in a very messy situation.
The Portugese footballer has allegedly committed three tax offences from 2011 through to 2013. According to sources, Ronaldo's sentence could vary anywhere between 15 months and five years. He could also be forced to repay €15m.
"These two crimes entail prison sentences of two to six years for each of them, which would imply the request of the State Attorney for a total minimum sentence of five years," said the Spanish finance ministry.
These tax frauds each bear a minimum jail term of two years if found guilty. The prosecutors will also plead for at least five years jail time. However, after repaying the amount he is said to have defrauded, the sentence could be lessened to something closer to 15 months.
A 21-month jail term was awarded to Ronaldo’s Barcelona rival, Lionel Messi for tax fraud. This decision was recently upheld by the Spanish Supreme Court.
However, Messi will not actually have to go to prison. According to the laws in Spain, any sentence under two years can be served in probation.
