Fugees rapper and entrepreneur, Pras Michel, is seeking a new trial amidst his ongoing legal battle, making explosive claims against his former attorney. Michel alleges that his attorney used artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the closing argument during his trial earlier this year, which ultimately led to his conviction. The claims have sparked controversy and accusations of prejudicial ineffective assistance of counsel.
According to reports by Politico, Michel’s new defense team from ArentFox Schiff, based in Washington, filed a motion with a federal judge, arguing that his former Los Angeles-based lawyer, David Kenner, relied on an experimental AI program during critical moments of the trial. Michel’s defense team further alleged that Kenner and his co-counsel had a financial stake in the AI program, creating a clear conflict of interest.
Peter Zeidenberg, a former federal prosecutor, supported Michel’s claims in a declaration included in the motion. Zeidenberg alleged that Kenner admitted to using AI technology to draft the closing argument, stating AI wrote our closing. The assertion that an AI program was responsible for creating the closing argument has raised questions about the integrity and fairness of the trial.
Michel was convicted in April on several charges, including acting as an unregistered foreign agent for China, witness tampering, and conspiracy. The emergence of these allegations against his former attorney could potentially lead to a new trial, as Michel’s defense team argues that the use of AI in the closing argument constitutes prejudicial ineffective assistance of counsel.
In the midst of his legal battle, Pras Michel has reunited with his Fugees bandmates to embark on a tour commemorating the 25th anniversary of Lauryn Hill’s iconic solo album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
The outcome of Michel’s request for a new trial remains uncertain. However, these allegations regarding the use of AI technology in his defense represent a new facet of an already complex legal saga.
