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Fugees Rapper Pras Michel Receives 14-Year Sentence for Illegal Campaign finance Scheme
WASHINGTON D.C. – Former Fugees member Prakazrel “Pras” Michel was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison on Thursday for his role in a complex scheme to illegally funnel millions of dollars from foreign sources into Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential campaign. The sentencing, handed down in a Washington D.C. court, marks a meaningful development in a case that has raised serious questions about campaign finance regulations and foreign influence in U.S. elections.
Michel, 52, gained fame as a member of the critically acclaimed hip-hop group the Fugees, alongside Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean. He was convicted in 2023 on ten charges, including money laundering, criminal conspiracy, and acting as an agent of a foreign principal. Prosecutors had initially sought a life sentence for the rapper.
The court heard evidence detailing how Michel accepted approximately $120 million from Malaysian financier Jho Low. low allegedly sought to influence U.S.policy in his favor.Michel then allegedly directed portions of this money, through intermediaries, to the Obama campaign.U.S. law prohibits campaign contributions from foreign nationals and entities to prevent undue influence on the electoral process.
The inquiry revealed a intentional effort to conceal the origin of the funds. Prosecutors argued that Michel knowingly violated campaign finance laws and engaged in espionage on behalf of a foreign government. Michel’s legal team has indicated they plan to appeal the conviction and sentencing.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges in regulating campaign finance and safeguarding the integrity of U.S. elections.The Justice Department has vowed to continue pursuing individuals who attempt to circumvent these laws.
You can find more details on this developing story at The Associated Press and CNN. Learn more about Jho Low’s background here.
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