Pras, the esteemed Fugees rapper, has filed a motion for a new trial following his recent conviction in a multi-million dollar foreign influence campaign scheme. In the motion, it is alleged that his former lawyer, David Kenner, utilized an experimental AI program to draft a flawed closing statement, leading to a critical misrepresentation of the defense’s case.
The motion, reviewed by EW, reveals that Pras’ new counsel pointed out substantial flaws in Kenner’s AI-generated closing argument, citing “frivolous arguments” and a disregard for essential elements crucial to the case. This AI-based approach, as claimed by the new legal team, ultimately resulted in a detrimental and prejudicial impact on the defense’s position during the trial.
Peter Zeidenberg, one of Pras’ new counsels and a former Justice Department political corruption prosecutor, emphasized the revelation that Kenner had employed the AI program EyeLevel.AI during the trial. According to Pras’ former publicist, Kenner referenced the system at the trial’s conclusion. A press release from EyeLevel.AI in May corroborated these claims, applauding the trial as a groundbreaking instance of generative AI usage in federal litigation.
Despite efforts to attain Kenner’s input on the matter, there has been no immediate response from the former attorney. Pras’ new legal representatives have chosen to refrain from additional comments regarding the motion at this stage.
Pras was previously found guilty in April of charges involving conspiracy and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government. The accusations implicated him in the alleged channeling of funds from Malaysian businessman Jho Low through straw donors to support Barack Obama’s 2012 campaign, as well as obstructing an investigation into Low’s illicit financial activities. The trial notably involved testimony from prominent figures, including actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who was linked to projects financed by Low.