Ex-Fugees star, Pras Michel, sentenced to 14 years in prison plus 3 years of probation over his role in a massive foreign-contribution scheme.
In 2023, Michel was convicted by the US Dept of Justice on 10 federal counts including conspiracy and acting as an unregistered foreign agent.
Prosecutors say he acted as a conduit, funneling millions of dollars from disgrace Malaysian financier Jho Low into Obama’s 2012 campaign via straw donors. In return, Michel received more than $120 million from Jho Low, according to authorities for his service. Low, who is a fugitive, also embezzled billions from the 1MDB investment fund.
Earlier this month, Michael was order to forfeit at least $64,923,226 in proceeds from the offense, according to Complex. He was also accused of tampering with witnesses – trying to suppress investigation by the Justice Department, and lobbying the Trump administration to stop the DOJ’s investigation.
The sentence comes approximately three months after his trial was postponed due to emergency surgery for colon cancer. The offense carried a maximum sentence of 22 years in prison. Prosecutors argued for a life sentence, calling his actions a massive betrayal, illegally influencing U.S. politicians with foreign money for profit. The defense called the 14-year sentence “completely disproportionate” and plans to appeal the decision.
Pras Michel is a rapper, producer, and founding member of The Fugees, known for their 1996 Grammy-winning album “The Score”. He also had a solo career with hits like “Ghetto Supastar” and worked in music production and acting.
This is a huge fall from grace for a founding member of The Fugees. What do you think this means for his legacy?
