Spanish king’s sister a corruption suspect

This video from Spain says about itself:

Royalty in question with Spain’s Princess Cristina in court

8 February 2014

Outside the court in Palma de Mallorca euronews correspondent Guillermo Gayo said, “The questioning of Princess Cristina before the judge as a suspect has produced an enormous expectation in the country.

‘It is taking place here in Palma a city where Cristina holds the title of duchess. Anti-monarchy groups have mounted a demonstration demanding the reinstatement of the Republic and others supporting a variety of social demands.”

Read the rest here.

From the BBC:

25 June 2014 Last updated at 09:03 GMT

Spanish Princess Cristina to face charges

If the case goes to trial and Princess Cristina is convicted, she could face up to 11 years in jail

A Spanish judge has formalised charges against Princess Cristina, King Felipe‘s sister, in a tax fraud and money laundering case.

The princess, 49, was questioned in court in February about the business dealings of her husband, Inaki Urdangarin, and could now face trial.

However, an appeal has been lodged against the decision.

The judge’s ruling will come as an embarrassment to Felipe VI, who came to the throne only six days ago.

The tax fraud case was one of several scandals that weakened the popularity of the Spanish monarchy and prompted the abdication of King Juan Carlos.

Princess Cristina’s appearance in court in Mallorca was unprecedented for the royal family and if she goes to trial, she could face up to 11 years in jail.

The investigating judge’s decision is a major development in this investigation and a huge embarrassment for the Spanish royal family.

Jose Castro believes the princess knew more than she has let on regarding the allegedly corrupt activities of her husband, Inaki Urdangarin.

This inquiry has now lasted more than three years and during that time it has heavily eroded the popularity of the royal family. Princess Cristina has already appeared in court to testify, but the door is now open for her to face trial, which would take the scandal to a new level.

Her brother, Felipe, became king less than a week ago following the abdication of their father, Juan Carlos. Of the many challenges he faces as the new monarch, this is perhaps the least welcome.

Judge Jose Castro has been investigating allegations that the princess’s husband embezzled millions in public funds with a former business partner.

Mr Urdangarin, who is the Duke of Palma, and Diego Torres were alleged to have received 5.6m euros (£4.6m; $7.5m) by overcharging regional governments for organising sporting events as part of a not-for-profit organisation called Noos.

Announcing his decision, Judge Castro said the princess should be tried alongside her husband and other suspects.

…

A final decision on whether she should stand trial will be made by the provincial court at Palma de Mallorca.