Grammy-winning rapper Prakazrel “Pras” Michel, better known as a founding member of the Fugees, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for unlawfully routing millions of dollars in foreign donations to former President Barack Obama’s 2012 reelection campaign. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly handed down the sentence in Washington, D.C.
The conviction of Michel, 52, came in April 2023 on several counts, including conspiracy and acting as an unregistered foreign agent. Evidence presented at the trial showed Michel received over $120 million from Malaysian billionaire Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, who directed portions of these funds through straw donors to support Obama’s campaign. The prosecutors accused Michel of selling out his country for financial gain, obstructing justice by tampering with witnesses, and perjury during the trial.
The trial saw high-profile testimonies from former Attorney General Jeff Sessions and actor Leonardo DiCaprio. Federal sentencing guidelines recommended a life sentence, given the seriousness of Michel’s crimes and his lack of remorse. Michel’s defense expressed that the 14-year sentence was disproportionate and plans an appeal against both conviction and sentencing.
Michel was also accused of trying to use his influence to push the Trump administration to drop an investigation into Low’s dealings and acting as a foreign agent without registration. Low, still a fugitive, has denied any wrongdoing. Michel’s legal team on the other hand argued that Low’s intent was not policy-driven; instead, it was for personal gain-to get a photo-op with President Obama.
This case underlines longstanding concerns about illegal foreign influence in US elections and the severe consequences of breaking campaign finance laws.
