Prakazrel 'Pras' Michel, rapper and founding member of the group Fugees, was sentenced to 14 years in prison for his involvement in the illegal financing of Barack Obama's 2012 presidential campaign. Michel was found guilty on ten counts, including conspiracy and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government.
Prosecutors sought a life sentence, accusing him of betraying his country for money. Michel obtained over 120 million dollars from Malaysian billionaire Jho Low, directing a portion of that money to Obama's campaign. He also attempted to stop an investigation into Low and manipulated witnesses. His lawyer stated that the sentence is disproportionate and announced an appeal. In August 2024, Michel's request for a new trial was denied. Michel, at the age of 52, had a diverse career in music and film, but now faces the legal consequences of his actions.
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