Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana were cleared today of any charges of criminal tax evasion, which they faced following a two-year investigation of their allegedly shady business practices in Luxembourg. While it's still unclear about how much money they might owe the Italian government in back taxes, no one will be going to trial over the matter. See, lots of people get this paperwork stuff mixed up (in Italy especially), but it doesn't mean they're criminals. No need to have an unseemly court trial (that harsh courtroom lighting — *shudder*) and hurl threats about orange jumpsuits.

Following the Milan judge's decision, Giuseppe Bana, who represents Dolce and Gabbana's accountant, stated: "The judge prevented this from going too far, it’s an investigation that should never have been initiated in the first place.” Allegations against the designers' accountant, Luciano Patelli, have also been cleared, as well as those against Dolce's brother, Alfonso Dolce, and the three other defendants in the case.

Earlier: Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana Accused of Fraud, May Face Imprisonment
Court Clears Dolce, Gabbana [WWD]