DWTS' Hélio Tap-Dancing to Trial Next March

This isn't a show Hélio Castroneves is looking forward to

By Josh Grossberg Nov 10, 2008 6:53 PMTags
Helio CastronevesAP Photo/David Adame

This isn't the kind of reality show Hélio Castroneves is looking forward to.

The former Dancing With the Stars champ and two-time Indy 500 winner will be waltzing before a jury in federal court on March 2, after a judge in Miami today set the date for the Castroneves' trial on conspiracy and tax-dodging charges.

U.S. District Judge Donald Graham also ruled that Castroneves' sister, Katiucia Castroneves, 35, and Ohio-based attorney, Alan Miller, 71, will face trial on similar charges.

The trio, who pleaded not guilty last month, are accused of using a Panamanian shell corporation to hide more than $5.5 million in income between 1999 and 2004.

Hélio is facing one count of conspiracy and six counts of tax evasion and remains free after posting a $10 million bond. His codefendants were ordered released on $2 million and $250,000, respectively.

The three face more than 30 years in prison each if convicted.

With partner Julianne Hough, Castroneves won DWTS' fifth season in 2007 and has since served as a special backstage correspondent for Entertainment Tonight in addition to continuing his racing career.