The News
Sunday 22 of December 2024

Eight More Years in Prison Sought for Spanish Princess' Husband


Spain's Princess Cristina's husband Inaki Urdangarin leaves a courthouse in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017,photo: AP/Joan Llado
Spain's Princess Cristina's husband Inaki Urdangarin leaves a courthouse in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017,photo: AP/Joan Llado
The 2016 case was the first time a member of Spain's royal family was put on trial since the monarchy was restored in 1975

MADRID – A prosecutor is asking Spain’s Supreme Court to increase the sentence handed down to the brother-in-law of King Felipe by possibly eight years.

Inaki Urdangarin was sentenced earlier this year to six years and three months in prison for fraud and tax evasion. The case centered on accusations that he embezzled about 6 million euros ($7 million) in public funds.

His wife, Princess Cristina, was absolved in the case but ordered to pay a fine.

The state prosecutor appealed the verdict before the Supreme Court and on Monday called for his sentence to be raised to up to 14 years and six months, chiefly for embezzlement.

The 2016 case was the first time a member of Spain’s royal family was put on trial since the monarchy was restored in 1975.