CCP linked Malaysian financier Jho Low has been at the center of the investigation. And he also faces separate federal criminal charges for allegedly embezzling $4.5 billion from Malaysia’s 1MDB sovereign wealth fund.
Michel was reportedly paid $70 million for assisting Low. As a result, the Fugees artist faces 11 criminal counts of attempting to influence the Obama administration. Prosecutors also note the artist is accused of unsuccessfully attempting to interfere with Trump’s investigation into Low.
Low, known for his lavish parties and celebrity connections, supported DiCaprio’s charitable foundation. And financed the 2013 movie “The Wolf of Wall Street.” DiCaprio starred in the film. And was nominated for an Oscar.
The Justice Department reached a civil settlement with the film’s production company in 2018. And $60 million of “The Wolf of Wall Street” profits were forfeited since it is believed they were stolen from 1MDB.
DiCaprio has since been fully cooperating with the U.S. government.
The Foreign Donations Scandal
Foreign donations to U.S. political campaigns are illegal under federal law. This trial is one of many examples of foreign entities attempting to influence American politics through any means.
