Fugees Rapper Pras Michel Ordered to Forfeit $64M

Pras Michel, the Grammy-winning rapper best known for his work with the iconic Fugees, has been ordered by a federal judge to forfeit over $64 million to the U.S. government. This significant financial penalty comes after his conviction last year on charges related to an international lobbying scheme.

The International Lobbying Scheme

The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly on November 30th, states that Michel illegally obtained at least $64,923,226 from his offenses. These charges included conspiracy, witness tampering, and failing to register as an agent of China. Prosecutors alleged that Michel acted as a conduit, funneling illicit foreign funds into U.S. political campaigns and attempting to influence American officials on behalf of fugitive Malaysian billionaire Jho Low.

Michel’s defense team had argued that the proposed forfeiture amount was excessive, but the judge ultimately rejected their argument. A spokesperson for Michel criticized the order, noting that a substantial amount of money had already been seized, and now an additional $64 million is being demanded.

Facing Sentencing and Potential Prison Time

Michel is slated for sentencing next month, where he faces a potential sentence of decades in prison. While his lawyers are requesting a much shorter sentence of three years, federal sentencing guidelines suggest a significantly longer period behind bars could be imposed.

The trial, which concluded in April 2023, saw Michel found guilty on ten counts. The high-profile case included testimony from notable figures such as actor Leonardo DiCaprio and former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Prosecutors detailed how Michel allegedly facilitated the transfer of funds from Low to political campaigns and engaged in lobbying efforts connected to China.

Health Scare and Legal Battles

The forfeiture ruling was delayed for several months due to Michel undergoing emergency surgery for colon cancer in August. With the hearing now concluded, the case is moving towards sentencing, and Michel’s legal team has already indicated plans to appeal both the conviction and the financial penalty.

This legal battle comes as Michel and his former Fugees bandmates, Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, have made headlines in recent years with attempts at reunion tours, celebrating the enduring legacy of their 90s hits like ‘Ready or Not’ and ‘Killing Me Softly.’