Prakazrel “Pras” Michel, a founding member of the iconic hip-hop group The Fugees, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for his involvement in funneling foreign money into former President Barack Obama’s 2012 reelection campaign. The 52-year-old Grammy-winning rapper was convicted in April 2023 on 10 federal counts, including conspiracy, witness tampering, and perjury.
Michel received over $120 million from Malaysian financier Jho Low and routed part of it through straw donors to Obama’s campaign, according to prosecutors. They argued that Michel “betrayed his country for money” and that federal guidelines pointed to a potential life sentence. The high-profile trial featured testimony from notable figures such as actor Leonardo DiCaprio and former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions.
Michel’s defense attorney, Peter Zeidenberg, has stated that the 14-year term is “completely disproportionate” and that they will appeal both the conviction and sentence. The defense had argued that a life sentence would have been “absurdly high,” typically reserved for terrorists and cartel leaders. Prosecutors also alleged that Michel attempted to interfere in a Justice Department investigation into Jho Low, tampered with witnesses, and lied repeatedly during his trial.
Born in Brooklyn to Haitian immigrant parents, Michel rose to global fame with The Fugees, whose music earned two Grammy Awards and sold tens of millions of records. The group’s success propelled Michel to international recognition, but he now faces one of the harshest sentences ever given to an American entertainer in a foreign influence case.
The sentencing of Prakazrel “Pras” Michel serves as a significant example of the consequences of illegal foreign influence in U.S. politics. The case highlights the importance of transparency and compliance with campaign finance laws. As Michel’s defense team prepares to appeal the conviction and sentence, the outcome of this case will be closely watched by the international community. With his sentencing, Michel’s career and legacy will undoubtedly be impacted, marking a dramatic turn for the once-acclaimed musician.