Former Dancing With The Stars champion and popular sports race car driver Helio Castroneves was found not guilty on Friday of six charges of tax evasion. Helio was also charged with one count of conspiracy but it came back hung. Castroneves was being charged alongside his sister, Katiucia, who was also acquitted. It was accused that Castroneves, his sister, and his lawyer had tried to evade US income tax in the amount of 2.3 million dollars.
Castroneves lawyer, Alan Miller, was also acquitted of all charges. The jury took six days to deliberate, after a trial that lasted six weeks. Castoneves, noticeably upset and emotional said, “I just want to thank God, and my fans, and all of the people who prayed for me. It has been a very difficult place to be in.”
If Castroneves had been convicted, he could have been sent to prison for six years. That is a far cry from the life he had led leading up to these charges and trial. Castroneves was among the more popular celebrities to ever grace the stage on Dancing with the Stars as he teamed with current country superstar Julliane Hough. Castroneves has also won many car races both in Brazil and across the world, including the Indy 500 twice.
His racing team replaced him pending the outcome of this trial and it was clear that Castroneves was anxious to get back behind the wheel. He is planning on racing this coming Sunday as a matter of fact. Castroneves is one of the most popular race car drivers of all time, and the sport is sure to welcome him back and cheer him on.
Though some of the details of the trial seemed to suggest that Helio may be guilty, the vast majority of the trial was very much the opposite. Many questioned why the criminal charges were levied in the first place. The charge of conspiracy that the jury hung on is not likely to be retried according to lawyers for Castroneves.
The case hinged on what prosecutors called a “shell corporation” called Seven Promotions. This company was set up to promote Castroneves in Brazil by Helio’s father. Prosecutors thought it was just a way for Helio to dodge US income taxes. The jury disagreed unanimously.
While the whole affair was shocking to many, and to Helio himself, he is sure to get back to what he does best very soon. Racing cars. Welcome back Helio, and congratulations on clearing your good name.
Image Credited To Wikipedia User Carey Akin
