Pras Claims Racism Plays a Role in Federal Conspiracy Investigation Against Him
Pras is a little confused as to why he's been dragged into a conspiracy investigation from the Dept. of Justice, but he believes it has something to do with his complexion.
On Tuesday (Dec. 11), the former Fugees rapper was leaving LAX when TMZ caught up with him and asked about his conspiracy allegations. When asked if he thinks the investigation is more personal than anything else, Pras responded with his opinion on the matter.
"I think it's the fact that I'm Black," Pras said. "It's just the vibe, but you know what's interesting though is that they'll come after someone like me but won't go after someone who clearly murdered someone at some embassy."
Over a week ago (Nov. 30), prosecutors filed documents at a federal district court in Washington D.C. accusing Pras, born Prakazrel Michel, of conspiracy along with former Justice Department official George Higginbotham. According to ABC News, the alleged conspiracy started with the investment company 1Malaysia Development Berhad, which was created by the Malaysian government. Over the years, the companies funds of up to $4.5 billion were misused and reportedly laundered into bank accounts in the U.S. and elsewhere.
Recently, the Justice Department stepped in to freeze the funds and charge Malaysian financier Jho Low for being part of the plot by bribing officials to look the other way. The court documents also claim that Low recruited the Wave Culture rapper who then brought on Higginbotham to allegedly help disguise campaign's connections.
"I'm a little confused too," Pras said when asked to explain the allegations. "I mean i know the guys obviously but it's like their making a movie right now. It feels like a movie with this allegation."
Pras has not been charged in the case, however the investigation is still on-going. Watch Pras offer up his defense below.
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