From the Fugees to federal prison: Pras begins a 14-year sentence for his role in a scheme to launder money and lobby for foreign governments
The Fugees artist starts his time in prison while his lawyers work on an appeal.
Pras Michel has started his 14-year federal prison term for his part in a large illegal campaign finance scheme. This comes after years of legal fights and public scrutiny.
The former member of the Fugees turned himself in at a federal prison in Arizona on April 30, according to Rolling Stone. This is a big change in his case that has been going on since he was found guilty of several crimes in 2023, such as money laundering, tampering with witnesses, and working as an illegal foreign agent.
Erica Dumas, his spokeswoman, said she understood how important the moment was and that the fight isn’t over.
“Today is a scary day for Pras, his family, and everyone who believes in justice that is fair,” she said. Pras follows the law as he goes to start his sentence. The FARA-related charges that got him convicted are being fought hard on appeal, and his lawyers think that the record will show that his rights were broken and the truth was hidden. This is a tough chapter, but it’s not the last one for him.
He also said, “He has to fight it on the inside…” His case is just getting started.
Earlier, prosecutors said Pras was sending money from Malaysian businessman Jho Low to U.S. political campaigns, such as those supporting Barack Obama’s reelection in 2012 and later lobbying during Donald Trump’s government.
Before the news came out, Pras was said to have kept a low profile by spending time with family and quickly going to a Lauryn Hill concert in Los Angeles.
