Fugees’ Pras found guilty of political conspiracy

Fugees' member Prakazrel "Pras" Michel has been found guilty of political conspiracy.

According to a report by AP News, the American rapper, producer and songwriter — born Prakazrel Samuel Michel and also known as Pras Michél — was convicted of "conspiring to orchestrate a series of foreign lobbying campaigns to influence the US government under two presidents."

Following an extensive trial at U.S. District Court in Washington, a separate report by the BBC states that the artist was "found guilty of 10 counts, including corruption which stemmed from allegations that he used money to peddle influence in the US."

The Justice Department involved in the court hearing said that the conspiracy used millions of dollars worth of foreign money for illegal lobbying and campaign contributions. He faces a maximum possible sentence of 20 years in prison.

In a statement, assistant attorney general with the Justice Department said: “Today’s verdict demonstrates that anyone who engages in unlawful foreign-sponsored efforts to influence American officials, our elections, or the criminal justice system will be brought to justice."

The artist's lawyer, David Kenner, told AP News he was disappointed by the verdict and plans to appeal. "This is not over," said Mr Kenner. "I remain very, very confident that we will ultimately prevail in this matter."

Alongside Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean, Pras Michel co-founded influential New Jersey hip-hop Fugees in 1990. They went on to become one of the best-selling hip-hop groups of all time. The trio briefly reunited in 2004 and 2021. Plans for a tour celebrating the 25th anniversary of their their landmark debut album 'The Score' were shelved last year.