In a separate motion, Michel has requested acquittal on most counts, arguing that the government’s evidence failed to prove his guilt.
Michel was initially convicted for his involvement with Malaysian billionaire Jho Low, accused of funneling funds into former President Barack Obama’s 2012 campaign through straw donors. The case also implicates Michel and Low in lobbying former President Donald Trump to halt an investigation into Low’s role in the misappropriation of billions from Malaysia’s 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) fund. Michel was also found guilty of attempting to extradite Chinese dissident Guo Wengui on behalf of China.
As the legal battle intensifies, Pras Michel’s plea for a new trial now rests in the hands of the justice system.
