Pras Michel has been ordered to give up $64 million in property by a federal decide as a part of his conviction tied to a sprawling worldwide bribery and money-laundering case involving Malaysian financier Jho Low.
The ruling, issued October 30, comes as Michel recovers from emergency colon most cancers surgical procedure that delayed his sentencing.
The previous Fugees member was discovered responsible in April 2023 on 10 felony counts, together with conspiracy, unlawful marketing campaign contributions, and performing as an unregistered international agent.
Federal prosecutors acknowledged that the forfeited funds signify proceeds that Michel both obtained or managed via shell corporations and accounts funded by Low, who stays a fugitive.
Authorities allege Low embezzled billions from Malaysia’s 1MDB sovereign wealth fund and used the cash to achieve affect in U.S. politics.
Courtroom filings revealed Michel helped funnel tens of tens of millions of {dollars} into Barack Obama’s 2012 marketing campaign.
He later tried to influence the Trump administration to drop its probe into Low and extradite Chinese language dissident Guo Wengui. Prosecutors stated Michel spent among the cash on political donations, luxurious journey and superstar occasions.
The Justice Division stated the forfeiture contains financial institution accounts and investments tied to the scheme. Beneath federal legislation, property linked to cash laundering or unlawful lobbying on behalf of international nationals could be seized by the federal government.
Michel’s trial drew nationwide consideration resulting from its superstar connections. Actor Leonardo DiCaprio testified about Low’s extravagant life-style and his ties to Hollywood.
Michel, 51, was portrayed by prosecutors as a conduit for international pursuits making an attempt to control U.S. coverage from behind the scenes.
Whereas Michel awaits sentencing, he’s additionally recovering from a well being disaster.
In late August 2025, he underwent emergency surgical procedure to take away colon most cancers. The prognosis had not been publicly disclosed earlier than the operation.
His medical situation pressured a delay in his sentencing, which was initially scheduled for August 29 however has been pushed again.
Sources near Michel stated he’s now targeted on his restoration and spending time together with his household. Regardless of the authorized and well being challenges, Michel stays hopeful. He faces as much as 20 years in jail.
Low, the central determine within the 1MDB scandal, remains to be believed to be hiding in China. The U.S. authorities continues efforts to recuperate stolen funds.
Michel’s sentencing has not but been rescheduled.
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