Sean Kingston reacts to three and a half year sentence over fraud scheme
Sean Kingston was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for fraud last week. The ‘Beautiful Girls’ singer learned his fate on August 15th after defrauding over $1 million worth of property.
Kingston and his mother, Janice Turner, took part in a “scheme to defraud victim sellers of high-end specialty vehicles, jewellery, and other goods purchased by the defendants through the use of fraudulent documents.”
In response to the verdict, Kingston’s lawyer Zeljka Bozanic told Rolling Stone, “We are content that the court did not go with the government’s request of five years and sentenced Sean below the sentencing guidelines instead.
“It is important to note that most of the restitution in this case was paid back, even before these charges were brought. Sean is taking this as a learning experience and will continue moving forward in a positive direction.”
She added, “We are actively reviewing all available options, including potential appeals, to ensure his rights are fully protected.”
The decision came just days after Kingston begged the judge for no prison time, and at the minimum 24 to 30 months behind bars instead of the five to six-year recommendation.
“Mr Anderson is deeply remorseful for his conduct and involvement in this scheme and has had time to step back and reflect on his actions and how to make amends,” the filing read. “Mr Anderson accepted responsibility in this case and has made all the positive steps toward learning and growing from this situation.”
They said home detention would “adequately punish Mr Anderson for his offence conduct while providing him the opportunity to care for his family and pay down the restitution amount.” Following his arrest, they said he had “worked diligently at his home studio” and would be “productive” outside of prison.
Kingston’s mother was previously sentenced to five years last month for her role in the fraud scheme.