Grammy-Winning Hip-Hop Star Pras Michel Convicted of 10 Counts in Foreign Influence Campaign Scheme

Grammy-winning hip-hop star Pras Michel was convicted Wednesday of 10 counts related to a “clandestine foreign influence campaign scheme” funded by a Malaysian financier. The scheme allegedly involved payments to Barack Obama’s 2012 presidential reelection campaign and efforts to convince the Trump administration to drop an extradition case on behalf of China.

The trial included testimony from actor Leonardo DiCaprio and former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Prosecutors alleged that Michel was paid millions by Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, also known as Jho Low, to help launder money Low had allegedly embezzled from a state-owned investment fund in his home country.

The scheme was uncovered by the Justice Department in 2019. According to prosecutors, Michel used straw donors to funnel money from Low to the Obama campaign. He was then allegedly paid to try to influence the Trump administration to drop an extradition case on behalf of China.

Michel, a founding member of the Fugees, was found guilty of all 10 counts against him, including conspiracy, making false statements to the Federal Election Commission, and falsifying records. He faces up to 20 years in prison.

The case has highlighted the potential for foreign influence in American politics. The Justice Department has said it will continue to investigate and prosecute those who attempt to influence U.S. elections and policy through illegal means.