R Kelly has a request for President Donald Trump. The convicted sex offender formally asked Trump to commute his 30-year sentence, according to court records released on the Justice Department’s website.&nbsp;Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, was convicted in 2021 and 2022 on multiple charges, including racketeering and violations of the Mann Act. In 2022, the former singer was sentenced to 30 years in prison for those crimes, and in 2023, he received an additional 20-year sentence for child pornography.<h3>R. Kelly plea to Trump in his 30-year sentence</h3>R. Kelly has now knocked on the doors of the White House in relation to his 30-year sentence. In the request, the singer has not asked Trump for a full pardon, but is seeking only a commutation, which would reduce his sentence.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/kim-kardashian-s-longtime-bodyguard-mason-haynes-dies-at-52-in-a-tragic-accident-family-launches-fundraiser-1784187040743"> Kim Kardashian's longtime bodyguard Mason Haynes dies at 52 in a tragic accident; family launches fundraiser</a>&nbsp;However, &nbsp;the singer Attorney Beau Brindley tells TMZ that before submitting the request to the Department of Justice, he had been working with Kelly for the request for a while now. Kelly is asking the President to commute his combined 31-year sentence for two different convictions in 2021 and 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;This request comes a year after his attorney filed an emergency motion for the singer's immediate release from federal custody to home detention, saying that his life is in danger. The singer’s legal team previously shared a sworn statement from an inmate alleging that officials promised him freedom in exchange for murdering Kelly in his final days.&nbsp;However, the White House has not released any official statement on this, but a White House official has told &nbsp;Rolling Stone. “This appears to be a random submission through the public portal which anyone can submit an application through,” &nbsp;&nbsp;“The submission of a pardon request should not be interpreted to mean anything other than an individual has chosen to submit a request. The team that reviews clemency requests at the White House is not tracking this request at this time. The White House has a thorough review process for all clemency requests, with the President being the ultimate decider,” they added.

Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, was convicted in 2021 and 2022 on multiple charges, including racketeering and violations of the Mann Act.

R Kelly has a request for President Donald Trump. The convicted sex offender formally asked Trump to commute his 30-year sentence, according to court records released on the Justice Department’s website. Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, was convicted in 2021 and 2022 on multiple charges, including racketeering and violations of the Mann Act. In 2022, the former singer was sentenced to 30 years in prison for those crimes, and in 2023, he received an additional 20-year sentence for child pornography. R. Kelly plea to Trump in his 30-year sentence R. Kelly has now knocked on the doors of the White House in relation to his 30-year sentence. In the request, the singer has not asked Trump for a full pardon, but is seeking only a commutation, which would reduce his sentence. Also read: Kim Kardashian's longtime bodyguard Mason Haynes dies at 52 in a tragic accident; family launches fundraiser However, the singer Attorney Beau Brindley tells TMZ that before submitting the request to the Department of Justice, he had been working with Kelly for the request for a while now. Kelly is asking the President to commute his combined 31-year sentence for two different convictions in 2021 and 2022. This request comes a year after his attorney filed an emergency motion for the singer's immediate release from federal custody to home detention, saying that his life is in danger. The singer’s legal team previously shared a sworn statement from an inmate alleging that officials promised him freedom in exchange for murdering Kelly in his final days. However, the White House has not released any official statement on this, but a White House official has told Rolling Stone. “This appears to be a random submission through the public portal which anyone can submit an application through,” “The submission of a pardon request should not be interpreted to mean anything other than an individual has chosen to submit a request. The team that reviews clemency requests at the White House is not tracking this request at this time. The White House has a thorough review process for all clemency requests, with the President being the ultimate decider,” they added.

R Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, was convicted in 2021 and 2022 on multiple charges, including racketeering and violations of the Mann Act.&nbsp;

R Kelly seeks help from Donald Trump to reduce his 30-Year sentence

Disgraced music mogul R Kelly is serving his term in jail after being convicted in various cases including racketeering, sexual exploitation of children, forced labour, and coercing girls and women to engage in illegal sexual activity. The singer has reportedly been hospitalized after a failed murder plot in prison. His lawyers have stated this.<h2>R Kelly rushed to hospital after escaping being murdered in prison?</h2>According to several reports, the light of this news came to light after new court documents showcased that the convicted sex trafficker was rushed to hospital after he was overdosed in prison. Reportedly, he collapsed at the federal correctional institute in Butner, North Carolina, a place for sex offenders. He was transported to Duke University Hospital.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thai-actor-prom-ratchapa-worrasarn-faces-allegations-of-sexual-misconduct-agency-issues-statement-1750152706101">Thai actor Prom Ratchapa Worrasarn faces allegations of sexual misconduct, agency issues statement</a>&nbsp;A new report filed by his lawyers alleged that he had been placed in solitary confinement and was given medication by the prison staff as per the designated prescription. Reports suggest that an emergency notion has been filed by Kelly's legal team that he should be released for home detention.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/sean-diddy-combs-trial-judge-dismisses-juror-over-inconsistency-here-s-why-1750148464420">Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial: Judge dismisses juror over 'inconsistency', Here's why</a>&nbsp;However, the federal prosecutors have opposed his request. "Kelly is a prolific child molester. He is unapologetic about it. Kelly has never taken responsibility for his years of sexually abusing children", wrote the prosecutors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/matthew-perry-death-probe-update-doctor-agrees-to-plead-guilty-for-supplying-friends-actor-with-ketamine-1750145584394">Matthew Perry death probe update: Doctor agrees to plead guilty for supplying Friends' actor with ketamine</a><h2>Downfall of R Kelly</h2>Robert Sylvester Kelly, aka R Kelly, the popular R&amp;B singer was sentenced by United States District Judge Ann M Donnelly to 30 years in prison. On September 27, 2021, after six weeks of trial, a federal jury in Brooklyn convicted Kelly of all nine counts of an indictment charging him with racketeering predicated on criminal conduct including sexual exploitation of children, forced labor, and Mann Act violations involving the coercion and transportation of women and girls in interstate commerce to engage in illegal sexual activity.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/david-h-k-bell-best-known-for-lilo-stitch-dies-at-57-1750133988162">David H.K Bell, best known for Lilo &amp; Stitch, dies at 57</a>&nbsp;The evidence at trial included the testimony of 45 government witnesses, including more than 10 victims, five of whom are named in the superseding indictment, testimony from employees of the defendant, text messages, video and audio recordings, photographs, phone and travel records, DNA evidence and expert witnesses.

Singer R Kelly has reportedly been hospitalized after he was overdosed with medications in prison. However, his legal team has alleged that a murder plot was set for him inside the jail.

Disgraced music mogul R Kelly is serving his term in jail after being convicted in various cases including racketeering, sexual exploitation of children, forced labour, and coercing girls and women to engage in illegal sexual activity. The singer has reportedly been hospitalized after a failed murder plot in prison. His lawyers have stated this. R Kelly rushed to hospital after escaping being murdered in prison? According to several reports, the light of this news came to light after new court documents showcased that the convicted sex trafficker was rushed to hospital after he was overdosed in prison. Reportedly, he collapsed at the federal correctional institute in Butner, North Carolina, a place for sex offenders. He was transported to Duke University Hospital. Also read: Thai actor Prom Ratchapa Worrasarn faces allegations of sexual misconduct, agency issues statement A new report filed by his lawyers alleged that he had been placed in solitary confinement and was given medication by the prison staff as per the designated prescription. Reports suggest that an emergency notion has been filed by Kelly's legal team that he should be released for home detention. Also read: Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial: Judge dismisses juror over 'inconsistency', Here's why However, the federal prosecutors have opposed his request. "Kelly is a prolific child molester. He is unapologetic about it. Kelly has never taken responsibility for his years of sexually abusing children", wrote the prosecutors. Also read: Matthew Perry death probe update: Doctor agrees to plead guilty for supplying Friends' actor with ketamine Downfall of R Kelly Robert Sylvester Kelly, aka R Kelly, the popular R&B singer was sentenced by United States District Judge Ann M Donnelly to 30 years in prison. On September 27, 2021, after six weeks of trial, a federal jury in Brooklyn convicted Kelly of all nine counts of an indictment charging him with racketeering predicated on criminal conduct including sexual exploitation of children, forced labor, and Mann Act violations involving the coercion and transportation of women and girls in interstate commerce to engage in illegal sexual activity. Also read: David H.K Bell, best known for Lilo & Stitch, dies at 57 The evidence at trial included the testimony of 45 government witnesses, including more than 10 victims, five of whom are named in the superseding indictment, testimony from employees of the defendant, text messages, video and audio recordings, photographs, phone and travel records, DNA evidence and expert witnesses.

Singer R Kelly has reportedly been hospitalized after he was overdosed with medications in prison. However, his legal team has alleged that a murder plot was set for him inside the jail.

R&B singer R Kelly rushed to hospital after alleged murder plot in prison

The R&amp;B superstar R Kelly is currently behind bars after being charged with racketeering and sex trafficking in 2021. While the singer spends his time in jail, he has been accused of serious allegations by his daughter Baku Abi.

Baku, also known as Joann Kelly, has accused her father of sexually assaulting her when she was a child. She has made the shocking allegations in a new documentary&nbsp;Karma: A Daughter’s Journey for the TVEI Streaming Network.&nbsp;

In the first two&nbsp;episodes, she accused the singer of abusing her when she was 10 years old.

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“He was my everything. For a long time, I didn’t even want to believe that it happened. I didn’t know that even if he was a bad person that he would do something to me,” she says in the first episode of the documentary, as per People.&nbsp;

She added, “I was too scared to tell anybody. I was too scared to tell my mom.”

Without sharing many details, Kelly said that she believes jail is a “well-suited place” for Kelly as she knows this from her “personal experience.”

Baku said that her mother Andrea was the first person she told.&nbsp;

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“I really feel like that one millisecond completely just changed my whole life and changed who I was as a person and changed the sparkle I had and the light I used to carry,” she says. “After I told my mom, I didn’t go over there anymore; my brother [Robert] and sister [Jaah], we didn’t go over there anymore. And even up until now I struggle with it a lot.”

Tearfully recalling the shocking experience, Joanne said she was eight or nine when Kelly abused her.&nbsp;

“I just remember waking up to him touching me,” she recalled. “And I didn’t know what to do, so I just kind of laid there, and I pretended to be asleep.”

Baku and her mother even went on to file a complaint against him.&nbsp;

"They couldn’t prosecute him because I waited too long. So at that point in my life, I felt like I said something for nothing."

Kelly has denied the allegations levelled against him by his daughter.&nbsp;

In a statement to People, his attorney Jennifer Bonjean said, "Mr. Kelly vehemently denies these allegations. His ex-wife made the same allegation years ago, and it was investigated by the Illinois Department of Children &amp; Family Services and was unfounded.... And the 'filmmakers,' whoever they are, did not reach out to Mr. Kelly or his team to even allow him to deny these hurtful claims."

The Grammy winner is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence after he was found guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking.

The R&B superstar R Kelly is currently behind bars after being charged with racketeering and sex trafficking in 2021. While the singer spends his time in jail, he has been accused of serious allegations by his daughter Baku Abi.

The R&B superstar R Kelly is currently behind bars after being charged with racketeering and sex trafficking in 2021. While the singer spends his time in jail, he has been accused of serious allegations by his daughter Baku Abi. Baku, also known as Joann Kelly, has accused her father of sexually assaulting her when she was a child. She has made the shocking allegations in a new documentary Karma: A Daughter’s Journey for the TVEI Streaming Network. In the first two episodes, she accused the singer of abusing her when she was 10 years old. Also read: Nick Cannon recalls attending Diddy's infamous party at the age of 16 “He was my everything. For a long time, I didn’t even want to believe that it happened. I didn’t know that even if he was a bad person that he would do something to me,” she says in the first episode of the documentary, as per People. She added, “I was too scared to tell anybody. I was too scared to tell my mom.” Without sharing many details, Kelly said that she believes jail is a “well-suited place” for Kelly as she knows this from her “personal experience.” Baku said that her mother Andrea was the first person she told. Also read: Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis may move to Europe to dodge Diddy backlash: Report “I really feel like that one millisecond completely just changed my whole life and changed who I was as a person and changed the sparkle I had and the light I used to carry,” she says. “After I told my mom, I didn’t go over there anymore; my brother [Robert] and sister [Jaah], we didn’t go over there anymore. And even up until now I struggle with it a lot.” Tearfully recalling the shocking experience, Joanne said she was eight or nine when Kelly abused her. “I just remember waking up to him touching me,” she recalled. “And I didn’t know what to do, so I just kind of laid there, and I pretended to be asleep.” Baku and her mother even went on to file a complaint against him. "They couldn’t prosecute him because I waited too long. So at that point in my life, I felt like I said something for nothing." Kelly has denied the allegations levelled against him by his daughter. In a statement to People, his attorney Jennifer Bonjean said, "Mr. Kelly vehemently denies these allegations. His ex-wife made the same allegation years ago, and it was investigated by the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services and was unfounded.... And the 'filmmakers,' whoever they are, did not reach out to Mr. Kelly or his team to even allow him to deny these hurtful claims." The Grammy winner is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence after he was found guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking.

R Kelly's daughter accused the singer of sexually abusing: 'I was too scared to tell..'

The singer R. Kelly was correctly sentenced to 20 years in prison on child sex convictions in Chicago, a federal appeals court ruled Friday. Jurors in 2022 convicted the Grammy Award-winning R&amp;B singer, born Robert Sylvester Kelly, on three charges of producing child sexual abuse images and three charges of enticement of minors for sex.

In his appeal, Kelly argued that Illinois’ former and shorter statute of limitations on child sex crime prosecutions should have applied to his Chicago case rather than current law permitting charges while an accuser is still alive.

He also argued that charges involving one accuser should have been tried separately from the charges tied to three other accusers due to video evidence that became a focal point of the Chicago trial.

Federal prosecutors have said the video showed Kelly abusing a girl. The accuser identified only as Jane testified for the first time that she was 14 when the video was taken.

The three-judge panel from the Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Friday’s ruling noted that jurors acquitted Kelly on 7 of the 13 counts against him “even after viewing those abhorrent tapes.”

The appeals court also rejected Kelly’s argument that he should not have been prosecuted since the allegations occurred while Illinois law required prosecution of child sex crime charges within ten years. The panel labelled it an attempt by Kelly to elude the charges entirely after “employing a complex scheme to keep victims quiet.”

In a written statement, Kelly’s attorney Jennifer Bonjean said they plan to seek a U.S. Supreme Court review of the decision and “pursue all of his appellate remedies until we free R. Kelly.”

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“We are disappointed in the ruling, but our fight is far from over,” she said.

Prosecutors in Kelly’s hometown of Chicago had sought an even tougher sentence, asking for 25 years. They also wanted a judge to not let that time begin until after Kelly completed a 30-year sentence imposed in 2022 in New York for federal racketeering and sex trafficking convictions.

Judge Harry Leinenweber rejected that ask, ordering that Kelly serve the 20 years from the Chicago case simultaneously with the New York sentence.

Kelly has separately appealed the New York sentence.

In arguments last month before the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, attorney Jennifer Bonjean asked the panel to find that prosecutors improperly used a racketeering statute written to shut down organized crime to go after the singer.

The singer R. Kelly was correctly sentenced to 20 years in prison on child sex convictions in Chicago, a federal appeals court ruled Friday. Jurors in 2022 convicted the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, born Robert Sylvester Kelly, on three charges of producing child sexual abuse images and three charges of enticement of minors for sex.

The singer R. Kelly was correctly sentenced to 20 years in prison on child sex convictions in Chicago, a federal appeals court ruled Friday. Jurors in 2022 convicted the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, born Robert Sylvester Kelly, on three charges of producing child sexual abuse images and three charges of enticement of minors for sex. In his appeal, Kelly argued that Illinois’ former and shorter statute of limitations on child sex crime prosecutions should have applied to his Chicago case rather than current law permitting charges while an accuser is still alive. He also argued that charges involving one accuser should have been tried separately from the charges tied to three other accusers due to video evidence that became a focal point of the Chicago trial. Federal prosecutors have said the video showed Kelly abusing a girl. The accuser identified only as Jane testified for the first time that she was 14 when the video was taken. The three-judge panel from the Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Friday’s ruling noted that jurors acquitted Kelly on 7 of the 13 counts against him “even after viewing those abhorrent tapes.” The appeals court also rejected Kelly’s argument that he should not have been prosecuted since the allegations occurred while Illinois law required prosecution of child sex crime charges within ten years. The panel labelled it an attempt by Kelly to elude the charges entirely after “employing a complex scheme to keep victims quiet.” In a written statement, Kelly’s attorney Jennifer Bonjean said they plan to seek a U.S. Supreme Court review of the decision and “pursue all of his appellate remedies until we free R. Kelly.” Also read: Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment: Buckingham Palace “We are disappointed in the ruling, but our fight is far from over,” she said. Prosecutors in Kelly’s hometown of Chicago had sought an even tougher sentence, asking for 25 years. They also wanted a judge to not let that time begin until after Kelly completed a 30-year sentence imposed in 2022 in New York for federal racketeering and sex trafficking convictions. Judge Harry Leinenweber rejected that ask, ordering that Kelly serve the 20 years from the Chicago case simultaneously with the New York sentence. Kelly has separately appealed the New York sentence. In arguments last month before the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, attorney Jennifer Bonjean asked the panel to find that prosecutors improperly used a racketeering statute written to shut down organized crime to go after the singer.

Chicago appeals court rejects R. Kelly's challenge of 20-year sentence

R Kelly, along with Universal Music Group, has been ordered to pay over $500,000 in music royalties to Brooklyn federal prosecutors for restitution and criminal fines related to his convictions, reported Variety. The imprisoned rapper and singer's long-standing music publisher, Universal Music Group, will cover the fines that R Kelly still owes.&nbsp;

US District Judge Ann Donnelly signed an order on August 23, directing UMG to make the payment to satisfy the outstanding fines. Initially, R Kelly had been instructed to pay around $28,000 from his prison inmate account to address his unpaid fines.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/barbie-to-get-new-post-credits-scene-628742/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

R Kelly is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence following his racketeering and sex trafficking convictions in New York in 2021. His 2022 sentencing involved a requirement for him, along with UMG and Sony Music Entertainment, to collectively pay a half-million dollar sum to the victims of sexual abuse.&nbsp;

Both UMG and Sony were identified as having potential property belonging to Kelly that could be used to cover the $504,289 restitution and fine amount. However, this recent ruling indicates that Sony Music will no longer be obligated to make payments, as R Kelly's royalties through Universal will suffice.

<h2>The conviction of R Kelly</h2>

R Kelly, also known as Robert Sylvester Kelly, was found guilty of nine counts of sex trafficking and racketeering in September 2021. The trial revealed that he had exploited employees and intermediaries to subject fans and aspiring singers to sexually abusive and controlling conditions, often confining them without basic necessities. He was also convicted on charges related to coercing minors into sexual activity and producing explicit content involving a minor.

This development marks the culmination of nearly thirty years of allegations against R Kelly. His career persisted amidst mounting accusations until the early 2010s when renewed claims emerged. The release of the 2019 docuseries Surviving R. Kelly&nbsp;significantly shifted public opinion against him, despite much of the information having been in the public domain for years. By the time of his incarceration, his significant earnings from tours and music had significantly diminished, which had previously been used to manage legal challenges and allegations.

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R Kelly, along with Universal Music Group, has been ordered to pay over $500,000 in music royalties to Brooklyn federal prosecutors for restitution and criminal fines related to his convictions, reported Variety.

R Kelly, along with Universal Music Group, has been ordered to pay over $500,000 in music royalties to Brooklyn federal prosecutors for restitution and criminal fines related to his convictions, reported Variety. The imprisoned rapper and singer's long-standing music publisher, Universal Music Group, will cover the fines that R Kelly still owes. US District Judge Ann Donnelly signed an order on August 23, directing UMG to make the payment to satisfy the outstanding fines. Initially, R Kelly had been instructed to pay around $28,000 from his prison inmate account to address his unpaid fines. R Kelly is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence following his racketeering and sex trafficking convictions in New York in 2021. His 2022 sentencing involved a requirement for him, along with UMG and Sony Music Entertainment, to collectively pay a half-million dollar sum to the victims of sexual abuse. Both UMG and Sony were identified as having potential property belonging to Kelly that could be used to cover the $504,289 restitution and fine amount. However, this recent ruling indicates that Sony Music will no longer be obligated to make payments, as R Kelly's royalties through Universal will suffice. The conviction of R Kelly R Kelly, also known as Robert Sylvester Kelly, was found guilty of nine counts of sex trafficking and racketeering in September 2021. The trial revealed that he had exploited employees and intermediaries to subject fans and aspiring singers to sexually abusive and controlling conditions, often confining them without basic necessities. He was also convicted on charges related to coercing minors into sexual activity and producing explicit content involving a minor. This development marks the culmination of nearly thirty years of allegations against R Kelly. His career persisted amidst mounting accusations until the early 2010s when renewed claims emerged. The release of the 2019 docuseries Surviving R. Kelly significantly shifted public opinion against him, despite much of the information having been in the public domain for years. By the time of his incarceration, his significant earnings from tours and music had significantly diminished, which had previously been used to manage legal challenges and allegations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

R Kelly, Universal Music Group ordered to pay $500K in restitution and fines

A federal judge on Thursday rejected a call from prosecutors to keep R. Kelly behind bars until he is 100, instead telling the Grammy Award-winning R&amp;B singer he would serve all but one of his 20 years on child sex convictions simultaneously with a previous sentence.

Handed down in a courtroom in Kelly’s hometown of Chicago, the sentence means Kelly could make it out of prison alive, when he is about 80. Prosecutors had asked Judge Harry Leinenweber to sentence him to 25 years — and to not let him begin serving those until after he completed the first 30-year sentence, imposed on him last year in New York for federal racketeering and sex trafficking convictions.

“The nature of this offense is … horrific,” Leinenweber said in explaining the 20-year sentence. He noted that Kelly’s sexual abuse victims would suffer from his crimes for the rest of their lives.

At the same time, he accepted defence arguments that Kelly might not even make it to 80, so handing him a consecutive lengthy sentence, rather than allowing him to serve all but one year of it simultaneously, didn’t make much sense.
<img alt="r kelly" data-caption="R. Kelly's uncle Gregory Preston, left, and other family members talk to reporters." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e1d6b438-8aa4-4382-8fc2-88f5c2160dff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/r-kelly%20%281%29.png" />
“He has a life expectancy of not a hell of a lot more,” the judge said. “He is 56 years of age.”

Kelly’s defence lawyer celebrated the ruling as a victory, and some of the singer’s fans could be heard cheering outside the courtroom.

Kelly remained still, his eyes downcast, as Leinenweber explained what was at times a hard-to-follow sentence. He did seem to show some emotion when a representative read a statement written by “Jane,” one of his accusers and a key prosecution witness.

“I was brainwashed by Robert and a sex slave,” Jane’s statement said. “It almost killed me.”

Kelly did not make a statement in court prior to the sentencing decision, heeding the advice of his lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, to stay quiet while they appeal both his Chicago and New York convictions.

“It’s the right outcome,” Bonjean said of the sentence after the hearing ended. “The judge was reasonable. He, I think, took into account both sides and ultimately was fair.”

The US&nbsp;Attorney in Chicago, John Lausch, conceded that prosecutors were disappointed Kelly didn’t receive more consecutive prison time. But he added, “Twenty years is a significant sentence, and we are happy that that was imposed in this case.”

The judge said at the outset of Thursday’s hearing that he did not accept the government’s contention that Kelly used fear to woo underage girls for sex, a determination that was important in deciding whether to extend Kelly’s current term significantly.

“The (government’s) whole theory of grooming, was sort of the opposite of fear of bodily harm,” the judge told the court. “It was the fear of lost love, lost affections (from Kelly)’. … It just doesn’t seem to me that it rises to the fear of bodily harm.”
<img alt="r kelly" data-caption="R Kelly's attorney Jennifer Bonjean, listens to a question at the Dirksen Federal Building after Kelly's sentencing hearing." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61d3d501-8d71-44a4-8855-5a1f8dd0b20e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/r-kelly%20%282%29.png" />
Two of Kelly’s accusers asked the judge Thursday to punish him harshly.

“When your virginity is taken by a pedophile at 14 … your life is never your own,” Jane’s statement read.

Another accuser, who used the pseudonym “Nia,” addressed Kelly directly in court. Speaking forcefully as her voice quivered, Nia said Kelly would repeatedly point out her alleged faults while he abused her.

“Now you are here … because there is something wrong with you,” she said. “No longer will you be able to harm children.”

Jurors in Chicago convicted Kelly last year on six of 13 counts: three of producing child porn and three of enticement of minors for sex. Prosecutors did not get a conviction on the marquee charge: that Kelly and his then-business manager successfully rigged his state child pornography trial in 2008.

Kelly rose from poverty in Chicago to become one of the world’s biggest R&amp;B stars. Known for his smash hit “I Believe I Can Fly” and for sex-infused songs such as 'Bump n’ Grind,' he sold millions of albums even after allegations about his abuse of girls began circulating publicly in the 1990s.

Prosecutors had previously described Kelly as “a serial sexual predator” who used his fame and wealth to reel in, sexually abuse and then discard star-struck fans.

At Thursday’s hearing, US&nbsp;Assistant Attorney Jeannice Appenteng urged the judge to keep Kelly in prison “for the rest of his life.”

Kelly’s abuse of children was especially appalling, she said, because he “memorialised” his abuse by filming victims, including Jane. Appenteng told the court Kelly “used Jane as a sex prop, a thing” for producing pornographic videos.

Bonjean has said repeatedly that the government singled out her client because he is a superstar and she previously accused prosecutors of offering an “embellished narrative” to get the judge to join what she called the government’s “bloodthirsty campaign to make Kelly a symbol of the #MeToo movement.”

She echoed that theme Thursday in calling the request for a 25-year consecutive sentence “overkill.”

The singer has suffered enough, including financially, Bonjean said. She said his worth once approached $1 billion, but that he “is now destitute.”

Just before Kelly was taken back to detention Thursday, Bonjean requested that he not be placed on suicide watch because constant checks by guards “is in and of itself cruel” and “creates mental health issues.”

“He was expecting this,” she told the judge. “Mr. Kelly … is not suicidal.”

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A federal judge on Thursday rejected a call from prosecutors to keep R. Kelly behind bars until he is 100, instead telling the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer he would serve all but one of his 20 years on child sex convictions simultaneously with a previous sentence.

A federal judge on Thursday rejected a call from prosecutors to keep R. Kelly behind bars until he is 100, instead telling the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer he would serve all but one of his 20 years on child sex convictions simultaneously with a previous sentence. Handed down in a courtroom in Kelly’s hometown of Chicago, the sentence means Kelly could make it out of prison alive, when he is about 80. Prosecutors had asked Judge Harry Leinenweber to sentence him to 25 years — and to not let him begin serving those until after he completed the first 30-year sentence, imposed on him last year in New York for federal racketeering and sex trafficking convictions. “The nature of this offense is … horrific,” Leinenweber said in explaining the 20-year sentence. He noted that Kelly’s sexual abuse victims would suffer from his crimes for the rest of their lives. At the same time, he accepted defence arguments that Kelly might not even make it to 80, so handing him a consecutive lengthy sentence, rather than allowing him to serve all but one year of it simultaneously, didn’t make much sense. “He has a life expectancy of not a hell of a lot more,” the judge said. “He is 56 years of age.” Kelly’s defence lawyer celebrated the ruling as a victory, and some of the singer’s fans could be heard cheering outside the courtroom. Kelly remained still, his eyes downcast, as Leinenweber explained what was at times a hard-to-follow sentence. He did seem to show some emotion when a representative read a statement written by “Jane,” one of his accusers and a key prosecution witness. “I was brainwashed by Robert and a sex slave,” Jane’s statement said. “It almost killed me.” Kelly did not make a statement in court prior to the sentencing decision, heeding the advice of his lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, to stay quiet while they appeal both his Chicago and New York convictions. “It’s the right outcome,” Bonjean said of the sentence after the hearing ended. “The judge was reasonable. He, I think, took into account both sides and ultimately was fair.” The US Attorney in Chicago, John Lausch, conceded that prosecutors were disappointed Kelly didn’t receive more consecutive prison time. But he added, “Twenty years is a significant sentence, and we are happy that that was imposed in this case.” The judge said at the outset of Thursday’s hearing that he did not accept the government’s contention that Kelly used fear to woo underage girls for sex, a determination that was important in deciding whether to extend Kelly’s current term significantly. “The (government’s) whole theory of grooming, was sort of the opposite of fear of bodily harm,” the judge told the court. “It was the fear of lost love, lost affections (from Kelly)’. … It just doesn’t seem to me that it rises to the fear of bodily harm.” Two of Kelly’s accusers asked the judge Thursday to punish him harshly. “When your virginity is taken by a pedophile at 14 … your life is never your own,” Jane’s statement read. Another accuser, who used the pseudonym “Nia,” addressed Kelly directly in court. Speaking forcefully as her voice quivered, Nia said Kelly would repeatedly point out her alleged faults while he abused her. “Now you are here … because there is something wrong with you,” she said. “No longer will you be able to harm children.” Jurors in Chicago convicted Kelly last year on six of 13 counts: three of producing child porn and three of enticement of minors for sex. Prosecutors did not get a conviction on the marquee charge: that Kelly and his then-business manager successfully rigged his state child pornography trial in 2008. Kelly rose from poverty in Chicago to become one of the world’s biggest R&B stars. Known for his smash hit “I Believe I Can Fly” and for sex-infused songs such as 'Bump n’ Grind,' he sold millions of albums even after allegations about his abuse of girls began circulating publicly in the 1990s. Prosecutors had previously described Kelly as “a serial sexual predator” who used his fame and wealth to reel in, sexually abuse and then discard star-struck fans. At Thursday’s hearing, US Assistant Attorney Jeannice Appenteng urged the judge to keep Kelly in prison “for the rest of his life.” Kelly’s abuse of children was especially appalling, she said, because he “memorialised” his abuse by filming victims, including Jane. Appenteng told the court Kelly “used Jane as a sex prop, a thing” for producing pornographic videos. Bonjean has said repeatedly that the government singled out her client because he is a superstar and she previously accused prosecutors of offering an “embellished narrative” to get the judge to join what she called the government’s “bloodthirsty campaign to make Kelly a symbol of the #MeToo movement.” She echoed that theme Thursday in calling the request for a 25-year consecutive sentence “overkill.” The singer has suffered enough, including financially, Bonjean said. She said his worth once approached $1 billion, but that he “is now destitute.” Just before Kelly was taken back to detention Thursday, Bonjean requested that he not be placed on suicide watch because constant checks by guards “is in and of itself cruel” and “creates mental health issues.” “He was expecting this,” she told the judge. “Mr. Kelly … is not suicidal.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

R Kelly sentenced to 20 years in prison for child sex crimes

R Kelly was once a high-flying R&B star, but now he's a convicted sex offender in jail. US District Judge Harry Leinenweber sentenced R Kelly to 20 years in prison on Thursday, February 23, for another set of sex crimes.

R Kelly was once a high-flying R&B star, but now he's a convicted sex offender in jail. US District Judge Harry Leinenweber sentenced R Kelly to 20 years in prison on Thursday, February 23, for another set of sex crimes. The court found him guilty on charges of child pornography. However, he has concurrently served 19 years in prison. Thus, only one year will add to the end of his last 30-year sentence. In September, the bar found R Kelly guilty of three cases of child pornography and three counts of child enticement. However, the court acquitted the R&B singer for a fourth pornography case. R Kelly is serving 30 years for sex trafficking and racketeering in New York in 2021. R Kelly sentenced to 20 Years According to the prosecutors, R Kelly's sex crimes against children justified the strict verdict by the court. Meanwhile, Kelly's accusers requested the judge for a harsher punishment. However, the court did not find him guilty of the obstruction of justice charges. The court also tossed out three counts of conspiring to receive child pornography and two enticement charges. Furthermore, the jury acquitted McDavid, Kelly's business manager, accused of conspiring with Kelly to obstruct the 2008 trial. R Kelly & his sex crimes Here's a timeline of R Kelly's sex crimes and the sentences he received for them. 1994: The court annulled R Kelly's marriage with Aaliyah, who listed herself as 18 years old when she was 15. 1996: Tiffany Hawkings filed a complaint against R Kelly for emotional distress and personal injuries suffered during their three-year-long relationship. 2001: Tracy Sampson, R Kelly's intern, accused him of persuading her into an inappropriate sexual relationship when she was 17. 2002: Patricia Jones accused R Kelly of impregnating her when she was underage. During the same year, Montina Woods sued Kelly for videotaping their sexual intercourse without her consent. Later, he faced 21 counts of making child sexual abuse videos. Furthermore, he faced 12 counts of producing child sexual images in Florida. 2017: A Buzzfeed report prompted allegations on R Kelly for trapping six women in a sex cult. 2018: The #MuteRKelly campaign gained momentum and prodded further allegations against the singer. 2019: After the Surviving R Kelly documentary release, prosecutors charged him with ten counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. However, he pleaded not guilty and gave a historic TV interview. In the same year, he faced sex trafficking and prostitution charges. 2021: In September, the jury found R Kelly guilty of nine counts of sexual assault. 2022: In June, Kelly was sentenced to 30 years for using his celebrity stature to sexually abuse children and women. 2023: Court sentences R Kelly for 20 years.

Who is R Kelly, the singer sentenced to 20 years more? Here are details about his heinous crimes & much more

A previously unreleased album by disgraced US R&amp;B singer R. Kelly, who is serving a 30-year sentence for sex offences, dropped Friday on the Spotify and Apple Music platforms, a recording that the music press described as a bootleg.&nbsp;

The release of the album, called 'I Admit It,' was first reported by the celebrity entertainment site TMZ. It featured 13 tracks, including the 19-minute title song, which had been published on SoundCloud in 2018 before Kelly was convicted of sex crimes against teenage girls and producing child pornography.&nbsp;

Spotify did not respond to an AFP request for comment and a few hours after the initial reports by TMZ and the Hollywood Reporter, the disc was no longer available on either music platform.&nbsp;

Questioned by Variety, a representative for Sony Music, which owns Kelly's musical rights, said the album had been briefly and unofficially made public, which, according to Variety, meant it had been a bootleg copy.&nbsp;

A lawyer for Kelly, Jennifer Bonjean, told Variety the singer and his entourage were not behind this release and that her client "is having intellectual property stolen from him."&nbsp;

The singer, known worldwide for his hit 'I Believe I Can Fly'&nbsp;and who sold 75 million records, was found guilty in September 2021 in a New York court of having masterminded a "system" of sexual exploitation of young women for three decades, including teenage girls.&nbsp;

For these sexual crimes, the federal court in Brooklyn sentenced him to 30 years in prison.&nbsp;

Last September, a court in Chicago, Illinois, found him guilty of the production of child pornography and embezzlement from a minor.&nbsp;

He could face a sentence of 10 to 90 years in prison, according to federal prosecutors in Illinois.&nbsp;

The lawsuits against Kelly were seen as a major milestone in the #MeToo movement, as the majority of plaintiffs in the case were Black women.&nbsp;

For decades, Kelly's stellar career had been dogged by rumors and suspicions of sexual violence. He had long managed to silence them with financial agreements that included confidentiality clauses.

A previously unreleased album by disgraced US R&B singer R. Kelly, who is serving a 30-year sentence for sex offences, dropped Friday on the Spotify and Apple Music platforms, a recording that the music press described as a bootleg.

A previously unreleased album by disgraced US R&B singer R. Kelly, who is serving a 30-year sentence for sex offences, dropped Friday on the Spotify and Apple Music platforms, a recording that the music press described as a bootleg. The release of the album, called 'I Admit It,' was first reported by the celebrity entertainment site TMZ. It featured 13 tracks, including the 19-minute title song, which had been published on SoundCloud in 2018 before Kelly was convicted of sex crimes against teenage girls and producing child pornography. Spotify did not respond to an AFP request for comment and a few hours after the initial reports by TMZ and the Hollywood Reporter, the disc was no longer available on either music platform. Questioned by Variety, a representative for Sony Music, which owns Kelly's musical rights, said the album had been briefly and unofficially made public, which, according to Variety, meant it had been a bootleg copy. A lawyer for Kelly, Jennifer Bonjean, told Variety the singer and his entourage were not behind this release and that her client "is having intellectual property stolen from him." The singer, known worldwide for his hit 'I Believe I Can Fly' and who sold 75 million records, was found guilty in September 2021 in a New York court of having masterminded a "system" of sexual exploitation of young women for three decades, including teenage girls. For these sexual crimes, the federal court in Brooklyn sentenced him to 30 years in prison. Last September, a court in Chicago, Illinois, found him guilty of the production of child pornography and embezzlement from a minor. He could face a sentence of 10 to 90 years in prison, according to federal prosecutors in Illinois. The lawsuits against Kelly were seen as a major milestone in the #MeToo movement, as the majority of plaintiffs in the case were Black women. For decades, Kelly's stellar career had been dogged by rumors and suspicions of sexual violence. He had long managed to silence them with financial agreements that included confidentiality clauses.

R&B star R. Kelly's Bootleg album 'I Admit It' surfaces on Spotify and Apple Music

R.&nbsp;Kelly, the multiplatinum R&amp;B&nbsp;singer&nbsp;convicted twice this year of sex crimes, will be required to&nbsp;pay&nbsp;at least $300,000 in restitution to some of his&nbsp;victims, a federal judge said on Wednesday.

The money will compensate two women, known as Jane and Stephanie, for the costs of therapy and herpes treatment, U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly said at a hearing in Brooklyn.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-r-kelly-trial-witness-testifies-singer-had-sex-with-her-hundreds-of-times-when-she-was-minor-508303">Also read |&nbsp;R Kelly trial: Witness testifies singer had sex with her 'hundreds of times' when she was minor</a>

That figure is likely to rise after prosecutors recalculate the cost of medication for Stephanie.

Donnelly denied prosecutors' requests to compensate Jane for lost income, and provide any compensation to a third victim known as Sonja.

Kelly&nbsp;attended the hearing via Zoom from a federal prison in Chicago.

Watch |&nbsp;RnB Superstar R Kelly found guilty of child pornography

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Donnelly sentenced&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;in June to 30 years in prison, after a jury convicted him of racketeering and other charges.

Prosecutors said the 55-year-old&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;exploited his stardom and wealth over more than two decades to lure women and underage girls into his orbit for sex.

The monthlong trial amplified accusations that had dogged the&nbsp;singer&nbsp;of the Grammy-winning hit "I Believe I Can Fly."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-r-kelly-convicted-of-child-phonography-and-sexual-abuse-of-minors-in-chicago-trial-516301">Also read |&nbsp;R Kelly convicted of child pornography and sexual abuse of minors in Chicago trial</a>

Kelly&nbsp;was also convicted last month in Chicago on separate charges of child pornography and luring underage girls for sex.

He is awaiting sentencing in that case, and also faces various state charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester&nbsp;Kelly, is among the most prominent people convicted of sexual misbehavior during the #MeToo movement against such conduct by prominent men.

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R. Kelly, the multiplatinum R&B singer convicted twice this year of sex crimes, will be required to pay at least $300,000 in restitution to some of his victims, a federal judge said on Wednesday.

R. Kelly, the multiplatinum R&B singer convicted twice this year of sex crimes, will be required to pay at least $300,000 in restitution to some of his victims, a federal judge said on Wednesday. The money will compensate two women, known as Jane and Stephanie, for the costs of therapy and herpes treatment, U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly said at a hearing in Brooklyn. Also read | R Kelly trial: Witness testifies singer had sex with her 'hundreds of times' when she was minor That figure is likely to rise after prosecutors recalculate the cost of medication for Stephanie. Donnelly denied prosecutors' requests to compensate Jane for lost income, and provide any compensation to a third victim known as Sonja. Kelly attended the hearing via Zoom from a federal prison in Chicago. Watch | RnB Superstar R Kelly found guilty of child pornography Donnelly sentenced Kelly in June to 30 years in prison, after a jury convicted him of racketeering and other charges. Prosecutors said the 55-year-old Kelly exploited his stardom and wealth over more than two decades to lure women and underage girls into his orbit for sex. The monthlong trial amplified accusations that had dogged the singer of the Grammy-winning hit "I Believe I Can Fly." Also read | R Kelly convicted of child pornography and sexual abuse of minors in Chicago trial Kelly was also convicted last month in Chicago on separate charges of child pornography and luring underage girls for sex. He is awaiting sentencing in that case, and also faces various state charges in Illinois and Minnesota. Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, is among the most prominent people convicted of sexual misbehavior during the #MeToo movement against such conduct by prominent men. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Singer R Kelly, already behind bars, ordered to pay victims

RnB Superstar R Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison for racketeering and sex trafficking early this year. He has been found guilty in his hometown of Chicago on child pornography charges.

RnB Superstar R Kelly found guilty of child pornography

Disgraced singer-songwriter R Kelly was found guilty in six counts, including three counts of child pornography, by a Chicago court jury, reported the New York Times. The publication said the jury found him guilty of filming himself abusing his goddaughter known simply as 'Jane'. A sex tape involving Kelly and 'Jane' had served as the basis of the original trial held in 2008. But both R Kelly and Jane had denied that the persons in the video were them. In the recent trial, he also faced charges of obstruction of justice by 'fixing' the trial, which included bribing or intimidating and threatening the witnesses. But the jury did not find him guilty of those.

But now, 'Jane', 37, testified that it is indeed she and Kelly in the footage.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rb-superstar-r-kellys-notorious-history-of-sex-allegations-and-convictions-492880">R&amp;B superstar R. Kelly's notorious history of sex allegations and convictions</a>

The sexual abuse charges against the 55-year-old R&amp;B star, who was already serving a sentence of 30 years in another federal trial held in New York in 2021, go back decades. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Kelly was 27, Aaliyah was just 15.

He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago. More years are expected to add to his sentence.&nbsp;

In the original 2008 trial, the testimony of 'Jane' and a sex tape allegedly involving Kelly and her served as the basis. But both Kelly and Jane said it was not them in the video, which led to Kelly being acquitted of all charges. It is for the 2008 trial that Kelly is being accused of 'fixing' by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them in the ongoing trial.

Earlier, prosecutors had said that R Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw.

Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly's crimes were detailed in Lifetime documentary series titled 'Surviving R. Kelly'.&nbsp;The series received critical acclaim. Not long after, he was charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019, and that led to his conviction.

Disgraced singer-songwriter R Kelly was found guilty in six counts, including three counts of child pornography, by a Chicago court jury, reported the New York Times.

Disgraced singer-songwriter R Kelly was found guilty in six counts, including three counts of child pornography, by a Chicago court jury, reported the New York Times. The publication said the jury found him guilty of filming himself abusing his goddaughter known simply as 'Jane'. A sex tape involving Kelly and 'Jane' had served as the basis of the original trial held in 2008. But both R Kelly and Jane had denied that the persons in the video were them. In the recent trial, he also faced charges of obstruction of justice by 'fixing' the trial, which included bribing or intimidating and threatening the witnesses. But the jury did not find him guilty of those. But now, 'Jane', 37, testified that it is indeed she and Kelly in the footage. Also Read: R&B superstar R. Kelly's notorious history of sex allegations and convictions The sexual abuse charges against the 55-year-old R&B star, who was already serving a sentence of 30 years in another federal trial held in New York in 2021, go back decades. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Kelly was 27, Aaliyah was just 15. He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago. More years are expected to add to his sentence. In the original 2008 trial, the testimony of 'Jane' and a sex tape allegedly involving Kelly and her served as the basis. But both Kelly and Jane said it was not them in the video, which led to Kelly being acquitted of all charges. It is for the 2008 trial that Kelly is being accused of 'fixing' by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them in the ongoing trial. Earlier, prosecutors had said that R Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw. Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly's crimes were detailed in Lifetime documentary series titled 'Surviving R. Kelly'. The series received critical acclaim. Not long after, he was charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019, and that led to his conviction.

R Kelly convicted of child pornography and sexual abuse of minors in Chicago trial

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex offender R Kelly is being tried on fresh charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in a Chicago court. A woman, called 'Jane', testified on the fourth day of the trial that R Kelly first made 'improper contact' with her when she was just 13, said media reports. She also said that he had sex with her hundreds of times before she turned 18. A few media reports claimed 'Jane' is R Kelly's goddaughter.

In the original 2008 trial, the testimony of 'Jane' and a sex tape allegedly involving Kelly and her served as the basis. But both Kelly and Jane said it was not them in the video, which led to Kelly being acquitted of all charges. It is for the 2008 trial that Kelly is being accused of 'fixing' by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them in the ongoing trial.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-r-kelly-has-a-dark-side-hidden-from-the-general-public-prosecutors-507945">At new trial, prosecutors describe R Kelly as man with dark side hidden from public</a>

R Kelly is already serving a 30-year sentence in another trial held in New York in 2021. He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago.

Earlier, prosecutors had said that R Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw.

Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly has faced sexual abuse charges since the 1990s. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Aaliyah was just 15, Kelly was 27.

It was acclaimed Lifetime documentary series titled 'Surviving R. Kelly', which detailed serious allegations by survivors, that led to the singer being charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019.

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex offender R Kelly is being tried on fresh charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in a Chicago court. A woman, called 'Jane', testified on the fourth day of the trial that R Kelly first made 'improper contact' with her when she was just 13, said media reports.

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex offender R Kelly is being tried on fresh charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in a Chicago court. A woman, called 'Jane', testified on the fourth day of the trial that R Kelly first made 'improper contact' with her when she was just 13, said media reports. She also said that he had sex with her hundreds of times before she turned 18. A few media reports claimed 'Jane' is R Kelly's goddaughter. In the original 2008 trial, the testimony of 'Jane' and a sex tape allegedly involving Kelly and her served as the basis. But both Kelly and Jane said it was not them in the video, which led to Kelly being acquitted of all charges. It is for the 2008 trial that Kelly is being accused of 'fixing' by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them in the ongoing trial. Also Read: At new trial, prosecutors describe R Kelly as man with dark side hidden from public R Kelly is already serving a 30-year sentence in another trial held in New York in 2021. He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago. Earlier, prosecutors had said that R Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw. Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly has faced sexual abuse charges since the 1990s. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Aaliyah was just 15, Kelly was 27. It was acclaimed Lifetime documentary series titled 'Surviving R. Kelly', which detailed serious allegations by survivors, that led to the singer being charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019.

R Kelly trial: Witness testifies singer had sex with her 'hundreds of times' when she was minor

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex trafficker and racketeer R Kelly is now being tried on the charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in Chicago. A &nbsp;Brooklyn federal court trial last year resulted in a 30-year sentence for Kelly. He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago. He has pleaded not guilty to charges and challenged his sentencing.

Now, in a fresh trial that started on Wednesday, prosecutors said Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw, media reports said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jonah-hill-bows-out-of-mental-health-documentary-stutz-promotions-due-to-anxiety-issues-507934">Jonah Hill bows out of mental health documentary 'Stutz' promotions due to anxiety issues</a>

One woman, who is called Jane to protect her identity, will testify before the jury about an alleged sex tape that was shot when she was either 13 or 14 and R Kelly was 31. The tape was also the basis of the original 2008 trial but both Jane and Kelly denied that it was them in the tape, and thus Kelly went scot-free.

In 2008, the R&amp;B artist was also similarly accused of rigging the trial by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them.

Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly has faced sexual abuse charges since the 1990s. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Aaliyah was just 15, Kelly was 27.

Since then, the spectre of numerous sexual abuse allegations, including those related to underage girls, has hovered over him. A Lifetime documentary series 'Surviving R. Kelly' detailed serious allegations against the singer. The series received critical acclaim. Not long after, he was finally charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019, and that led to his conviction. 
&nbsp;

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex trafficker and racketeer R Kelly is now being tried on the charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in Chicago.

Singer-songwriter and convicted sex trafficker and racketeer R Kelly is now being tried on the charges of child pornography and obstruction of justice in Chicago. A Brooklyn federal court trial last year resulted in a 30-year sentence for Kelly. He is currently lodged at Metropolitan Correctional Center, Chicago. He has pleaded not guilty to charges and challenged his sentencing. Now, in a fresh trial that started on Wednesday, prosecutors said Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has a "dark" and "hidden" side that the general public rarely saw, media reports said. Also Read: Jonah Hill bows out of mental health documentary 'Stutz' promotions due to anxiety issues One woman, who is called Jane to protect her identity, will testify before the jury about an alleged sex tape that was shot when she was either 13 or 14 and R Kelly was 31. The tape was also the basis of the original 2008 trial but both Jane and Kelly denied that it was them in the tape, and thus Kelly went scot-free. In 2008, the R&B artist was also similarly accused of rigging the trial by bribing the witnesses with money and gifts or intimidating and threatening them. Born on January 8, 1967 on the South Side of Chicago, Illinois, R. Kelly has faced sexual abuse charges since the 1990s. His first marriage was illegal as it was with an underage girl -- singer and actor Aaliyah. While Aaliyah was just 15, Kelly was 27. Since then, the spectre of numerous sexual abuse allegations, including those related to underage girls, has hovered over him. A Lifetime documentary series 'Surviving R. Kelly' detailed serious allegations against the singer. The series received critical acclaim. Not long after, he was finally charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in 2019, and that led to his conviction.

At new trial, prosecutors describe R Kelly as man with dark side hidden from public

R&B Singer R Kelly has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexual abuse. He faced numerous allegations of sexually exploiting teenage girls, but evaded the law for 3 decades. How did he get away for so long? Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: R&B Singer R. Kelly convicted for sexual abuse

R&amp;B singer R Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing women, girls and boys, almost 20 years after first facing allegations. The 55-year-old was found guilty on all nine charges he faced, and the punishment was announced by Judge Ann Donnelly in the Brooklyn federal court.

"The verdict is in: R. Kelly has been sentenced to 30 years," the US attorney's office for the Eastern District of New York said in a tweet. The prosecutors asked for at least 25 years in prison for the disgraced singer as they believed that he "poses a serious danger to the public."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salah-abdeslam-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-for-role-in-2015-paris-attacks-493107">Paris attacker Salah Abdeslam sentenced to life in prison without parole</a>

"His actions were brazen, manipulative, controlling and coercive. He has shown no remorse or respect for the law," prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo according to AFP.

Kelly is also facing another trial in Chicago which will be starting from August 15. In that case, Kelly and two of his associates were accused of rigging his 2008 pornography trial and also perjury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-first-country-other-than-russia-to-recognise-ukraine-separatist-republics-of-donetsk-and-lugansk-493080">Syria recognises Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk</a>

During the course of the trial, a total of 45 witnesses – 11 being alleged victims of Kelly – appeared in front of the court and he was even found guilty of racketeering – the worst of the charges.

The biggest aspect of the R Kelly trial was his controversial relationship with late singer Aaliyah whom he illegally married when she was just 15 years old. AFP reported that his former manager admitted to bribing officials in order to get fake identification for Aaliyah in order to complete the marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rb-superstar-r-kellys-notorious-history-of-sex-allegations-and-convictions-492880" hreflang="en">R&amp;B superstar R. Kelly's notorious history of sex allegations and convictions</a>

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R&B singer R Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing women, girls and boys, almost 20 years after first facing allegations. The 55-year-old was found guilty on all nine charges he faced, and the punishment was announced by Judge Ann Donnelly in the Brooklyn federal court.

R&B singer R Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually abusing women, girls and boys, almost 20 years after first facing allegations. The 55-year-old was found guilty on all nine charges he faced, and the punishment was announced by Judge Ann Donnelly in the Brooklyn federal court. "The verdict is in: R. Kelly has been sentenced to 30 years," the US attorney's office for the Eastern District of New York said in a tweet. The prosecutors asked for at least 25 years in prison for the disgraced singer as they believed that he "poses a serious danger to the public." Also read | Paris attacker Salah Abdeslam sentenced to life in prison without parole "His actions were brazen, manipulative, controlling and coercive. He has shown no remorse or respect for the law," prosecutors wrote in their sentencing memo according to AFP. Kelly is also facing another trial in Chicago which will be starting from August 15. In that case, Kelly and two of his associates were accused of rigging his 2008 pornography trial and also perjury. Also read | Syria recognises Ukraine separatist republics of Donetsk and Lugansk During the course of the trial, a total of 45 witnesses – 11 being alleged victims of Kelly – appeared in front of the court and he was even found guilty of racketeering – the worst of the charges. The biggest aspect of the R Kelly trial was his controversial relationship with late singer Aaliyah whom he illegally married when she was just 15 years old. AFP reported that his former manager admitted to bribing officials in order to get fake identification for Aaliyah in order to complete the marriage. R&B superstar R. Kelly's notorious history of sex allegations and convictions WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Singer R Kelly sentenced to 30 years in prison on sexual abuse charges

R&B superstar R. Kelly's notorious history of sex allegations and convictions

Disgraced R&B superstar R Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison, months after he was convicted on all nine counts in a high-profile sex trafficking case.

R Kelly sentenced to 30 years in prison in sex trafficking case

US prosecutors on Wednesday said the multiplatinum R&amp;B singer R&nbsp;Kelly deserves to spend more than 25 years in prison after being convicted of sex trafficking. 
 
In a filing in Brooklyn federal court, prosecutors said Kelly exploited his stardom and wealth over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls for sex, demonstrating a "callous disregard" for his victims and showing no remorse. 
"Indeed, the defendant's decades of crime appear to have been fueled by narcissism and a belief that his musical talent absolved him of any need to conform his conduct - no matter how predatory, harmful, humiliating or abusive to others - to the strictures of the law," prosecutors said. 
 
Kelly, 55, who has been jailed since 2019, remains a "serious danger" to the public, justifying keeping him behind bars until well into his 70s, prosecutors added. 
 
Jennifer Bonjean, a lawyer for Kelly, has said he should spend fewer than 14 years in prison, and will in a filing next Monday explain why his "history and characteristics" justify a shorter sentence. 
 
Bonjean`s office declined to comment. 
 
Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, faces a minimum 10-year term at his June 29 sentencing. 
He is among the most prominent people convicted of sexual misbehaviour during the #MeToo movement against such conduct by prominent men. 
 
Kelly`s 5-1/2 week trial amplified accusations that had dogged him since the early 2000s. 
 
Testimony from 45 government witnesses, including several of Kelly`s abuse victims, portrayed in often graphic detail an unseemly side to a music career highlighted by the 1996 Grammy-winning smash "I Believe I Can Fly." 
 
REPEAT OFFENDER

Witnesses said Kelly would demand that his victims strictly obey rules such as needing his permission to eat or go to the bathroom, calling him "Daddy," and writing "apology letters" that purported to absolve him of wrongdoing. 
 
"The defendant severely physically and psychologically scarred all of his victims repeatedly and consistently," prosecutors said. "The government has little doubt that if afforded an opportunity to offend again, the defendant would." 
 
Much of the case turned on accusations related to six women. 
 
They included the singer Aaliyah, who prosecutors said Kelly fraudulently married when she was 15 to conceal abuse from when she was 12 or 13. Aaliyah died in 2001. 
 
Jurors needed a little over a day to convict Kelly last Sept. 27 on all nine counts he faced. 
 
The charges included racketeering and eight counts of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for prostitution. 
 
Many of Kelly`s accusers were Black, differentiating his conviction from those of comedian Bill Cosby and movie producer Harvey Weinstein since #MeToo began in 2017. Cosby`s conviction was overturned last June. 
 
Kelly has repeatedly denied sexual abuse accusations. He also faces federal charges in Chicago on child pornography and obstruction, and state charges in Illinois and Minnesota. 
&nbsp;

US prosecutors on Wednesday said the multiplatinum R&B singer R Kelly deserves to spend more than 25 years in prison after being convicted of sex trafficking. In a filing in Brooklyn federal court, prosecutors said Kelly exploited his stardom and wealth over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls for sex, demonstrating a "callous disregard" for his victims and showing no remorse.

US prosecutors on Wednesday said the multiplatinum R&B singer R Kelly deserves to spend more than 25 years in prison after being convicted of sex trafficking. In a filing in Brooklyn federal court, prosecutors said Kelly exploited his stardom and wealth over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls for sex, demonstrating a "callous disregard" for his victims and showing no remorse. "Indeed, the defendant's decades of crime appear to have been fueled by narcissism and a belief that his musical talent absolved him of any need to conform his conduct - no matter how predatory, harmful, humiliating or abusive to others - to the strictures of the law," prosecutors said. Kelly, 55, who has been jailed since 2019, remains a "serious danger" to the public, justifying keeping him behind bars until well into his 70s, prosecutors added. Jennifer Bonjean, a lawyer for Kelly, has said he should spend fewer than 14 years in prison, and will in a filing next Monday explain why his "history and characteristics" justify a shorter sentence. Bonjean`s office declined to comment. Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, faces a minimum 10-year term at his June 29 sentencing. He is among the most prominent people convicted of sexual misbehaviour during the #MeToo movement against such conduct by prominent men. Kelly`s 5-1/2 week trial amplified accusations that had dogged him since the early 2000s. Testimony from 45 government witnesses, including several of Kelly`s abuse victims, portrayed in often graphic detail an unseemly side to a music career highlighted by the 1996 Grammy-winning smash "I Believe I Can Fly." REPEAT OFFENDER Witnesses said Kelly would demand that his victims strictly obey rules such as needing his permission to eat or go to the bathroom, calling him "Daddy," and writing "apology letters" that purported to absolve him of wrongdoing. "The defendant severely physically and psychologically scarred all of his victims repeatedly and consistently," prosecutors said. "The government has little doubt that if afforded an opportunity to offend again, the defendant would." Much of the case turned on accusations related to six women. They included the singer Aaliyah, who prosecutors said Kelly fraudulently married when she was 15 to conceal abuse from when she was 12 or 13. Aaliyah died in 2001. Jurors needed a little over a day to convict Kelly last Sept. 27 on all nine counts he faced. The charges included racketeering and eight counts of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for prostitution. Many of Kelly`s accusers were Black, differentiating his conviction from those of comedian Bill Cosby and movie producer Harvey Weinstein since #MeToo began in 2017. Cosby`s conviction was overturned last June. Kelly has repeatedly denied sexual abuse accusations. He also faces federal charges in Chicago on child pornography and obstruction, and state charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

US says convicted R&B singer R. Kelly deserves more than 25 years in prison

R Kelly's YouTube channels have been removed after the singer-songwriter was found guilty on all nine counts in his sex trafficking case. 
 
As a result, the singer will not be allowed to create any new channels going forward on the platform. As per Variety, YouTube has not banned Kelly`s music and it will continue to offer the singer's music library on YouTube Music.

On Tuesday, YouTube had removed Kelly`s two channels -- RKellyTV (having 3.5 million subscribers) and RKellyVevo (having about 1.6 million subscribers). The channels were removed citing a violation of its terms of service. 
 
When a user tries to view any video of Kelly`s, a message pops up saying: "This video is no longer available because the YouTube account associated with this video has been terminated." 
 
Last week, the 54-year-old singer was found guilty on all nine counts in his sex trafficking case. The singer was found guilty of leading a decades-long scheme to recruit women and underage girls for sex in New York, reported Fox News. The disgraced singer faces the possibility of decades in prison.&nbsp; 
 
Kelly's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 4, 2022. 
 
The verdict followed a trial that began on August 18 and included 50 witnesses. In the trial, Kelly faced federal counts of human trafficking, racketeering, child pornography, kidnapping and forced labour. 
 
In January 2019, Lifetime released the docuseries titled 'Surviving R&nbsp;Kelly', which brought renewed attention to the allegations against the singer and prompted calls for an official investigation.&nbsp;

R Kelly's YouTube channels have been removed after the singer-songwriter was found guilty on all nine counts in his sex trafficking case. As a result, the singer will not be allowed to create any new channels going forward on the platform.

R Kelly's YouTube channels have been removed after the singer-songwriter was found guilty on all nine counts in his sex trafficking case. As a result, the singer will not be allowed to create any new channels going forward on the platform. As per Variety, YouTube has not banned Kelly`s music and it will continue to offer the singer's music library on YouTube Music. On Tuesday, YouTube had removed Kelly`s two channels -- RKellyTV (having 3.5 million subscribers) and RKellyVevo (having about 1.6 million subscribers). The channels were removed citing a violation of its terms of service. When a user tries to view any video of Kelly`s, a message pops up saying: "This video is no longer available because the YouTube account associated with this video has been terminated." Last week, the 54-year-old singer was found guilty on all nine counts in his sex trafficking case. The singer was found guilty of leading a decades-long scheme to recruit women and underage girls for sex in New York, reported Fox News. The disgraced singer faces the possibility of decades in prison. Kelly's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 4, 2022. The verdict followed a trial that began on August 18 and included 50 witnesses. In the trial, Kelly faced federal counts of human trafficking, racketeering, child pornography, kidnapping and forced labour. In January 2019, Lifetime released the docuseries titled 'Surviving R Kelly', which brought renewed attention to the allegations against the singer and prompted calls for an official investigation.

R Kelly's YouTube channels removed following his sex trafficking conviction

R Kelly was convicted by a federal jury on Monday in his sex trafficking trial, where prosecutors accused the R&amp;B singer of exploiting his stardom over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls into his orbit for sex. 
 
Jurors in Brooklyn federal court deliberated for a little more than a day before voting to convict the 54-year-old Kelly on all nine counts he faced, after a 5-1/2 week trial. 
 
Kelly kept his head down as the verdict was read, with his face shielded by a white mask. 
 
A woman watching from an overflow courtroom cried as the verdict was read, as did others who had waited to learn Kelly`s fate in a park adjacent to the courthouse. One supporter played the singer`s music there, including the song "Shut Up." 
 
Deveraux Cannick, a lawyer for Kelly, told reporters that the defense was disappointed. "I`m sure we`ll be appealing," he said. 
 
Kelly faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years behind bars, and could face up to life in prison at his May 4, 2022, sentencing. 
 
The singer, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, is one of the most prominent people tried on sex charges during the #MeToo movement, which amplified accusations that had dogged him since the early 2000s. 
 
Like Kelly, many of his accusers were Black, differentiating the case from recent #MeToo convictions of comedian Bill Cosby and movie producer Harvey Weinstein. Cosby`s conviction was overturned in June. 
 
Kelly also had Black supporters. 
 
One, Sylvia Tumusiime, said in an interview that the verdict left her "angry, upset and seeing that this is white American. White America," after she had attended the entire trial. 
 
"I`m going to try to raise some money for him to try to get this appeal process started," said Tumusiime, from the state of Georgia. "I`m going hard and I`m not giving up. I`m not." 
 
Kelly had been charged with one count of racketeering and eight counts of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for prostitution. 
 
The racketeering charge gave prosecutors leeway to offer evidence that might otherwise be too old to prosecute. 
 
"We hope that today`s verdict brings some measure of comfort and closure to the victims," Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis told reporters. 
 
SHARING THEIR STORIES 
 
Prosecutors said Kelly took advantage of his fame and charisma to recruit victims, including some plucked from crowds at his concerts, with the aid of people in his entourage. 
 
Witnesses said some victims had hoped Kelly could jumpstart their careers, only to find he demanded their strict obedience and would punish them if they failed. 
 
Trial testimony from the 45 government witnesses portrayed, often in graphic detail, an unseemly side to Kelly`s 30-year music career, whose highlights include the 1996 Grammy-winning smash "I Believe I Can Fly." 
 
Kelly has repeatedly denied sexual abuse accusations. 
 
His alleged victims included the late singer Aaliyah, who Kelly briefly and illegally married in 1994 when she was 15. Aaliyah died in a 2001 plane crash. 
 
Many accusations against Kelly were included in the January 2019 Lifetime documentary "Surviving R. Kelly." 
 
"We commend the survivors for their bravery in speaking out and sharing their stories," Lifetime and the documentary`s producers said in a joint statement. "They have opened up important conversations on sexual abuse that needed to happen." 
 
Several witnesses testified that Kelly instilled fear if his victims did not fulfill his every need, sexual and otherwise. 
 
Jurors heard how Kelly would compel victims to follow "Rob`s rules," including that they call him "Daddy" and get permission to eat or go to the bathroom. 
 
Witnesses said Kelly pressed accusers to write "apology letters" to potentially absolve him of wrongdoing, and concealed before intercourse that he had contracted herpes. 
 
`NO MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.` 
 
One witness, who identified herself as Sonja, testified she had hoped to interview Kelly for a radio station where she was interning, when he locked her up for at least two days without food or water and then assaulted her. 
 
"I`ve been hiding from Robert Kelly in fear," Sonja said in a statement read by her lawyer Gloria Allred. "I`m ready to start living my life free from fear and to start the healing process." 
 
Allred alluded after the verdict to Cannick`s closing argument where he invoked the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in urging jurors to show courage and acquit Kelly. 
 
"Despite the fact that he thought he could control all of his victims, he was wrong," Allred told reporters, referring to Kelly. "Based on the evidence, the jury must have concluded that R. Kelly is no Martin Luther King Jr." 
 
Kelly did not testify in his defense. 
 
His lawyers had sought to portray Kelly`s accusers as former fans who felt jilted when they fell from his favor, and that their sex with Kelly was consensual. 
 
They also tried to show how some accusers stayed with Kelly long after the alleged abuses began, and questioned why they failed to go to the police or waited years to come forward. 
 
On top of the conviction, Kelly still faces federal charges in Chicago on child pornography and obstruction, and state charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

R Kelly was convicted by a federal jury on Monday in his sex trafficking trial, where prosecutors accused the R&B singer of exploiting his stardom over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls into his orbit for sex.

R Kelly was convicted by a federal jury on Monday in his sex trafficking trial, where prosecutors accused the R&B singer of exploiting his stardom over a quarter-century to lure women and underage girls into his orbit for sex. Jurors in Brooklyn federal court deliberated for a little more than a day before voting to convict the 54-year-old Kelly on all nine counts he faced, after a 5-1/2 week trial. Kelly kept his head down as the verdict was read, with his face shielded by a white mask. A woman watching from an overflow courtroom cried as the verdict was read, as did others who had waited to learn Kelly`s fate in a park adjacent to the courthouse. One supporter played the singer`s music there, including the song "Shut Up." Deveraux Cannick, a lawyer for Kelly, told reporters that the defense was disappointed. "I`m sure we`ll be appealing," he said. Kelly faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years behind bars, and could face up to life in prison at his May 4, 2022, sentencing. The singer, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, is one of the most prominent people tried on sex charges during the #MeToo movement, which amplified accusations that had dogged him since the early 2000s. Like Kelly, many of his accusers were Black, differentiating the case from recent #MeToo convictions of comedian Bill Cosby and movie producer Harvey Weinstein. Cosby`s conviction was overturned in June. Kelly also had Black supporters. One, Sylvia Tumusiime, said in an interview that the verdict left her "angry, upset and seeing that this is white American. White America," after she had attended the entire trial. "I`m going to try to raise some money for him to try to get this appeal process started," said Tumusiime, from the state of Georgia. "I`m going hard and I`m not giving up. I`m not." Kelly had been charged with one count of racketeering and eight counts of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for prostitution. The racketeering charge gave prosecutors leeway to offer evidence that might otherwise be too old to prosecute. "We hope that today`s verdict brings some measure of comfort and closure to the victims," Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis told reporters. SHARING THEIR STORIES Prosecutors said Kelly took advantage of his fame and charisma to recruit victims, including some plucked from crowds at his concerts, with the aid of people in his entourage. Witnesses said some victims had hoped Kelly could jumpstart their careers, only to find he demanded their strict obedience and would punish them if they failed. Trial testimony from the 45 government witnesses portrayed, often in graphic detail, an unseemly side to Kelly`s 30-year music career, whose highlights include the 1996 Grammy-winning smash "I Believe I Can Fly." Kelly has repeatedly denied sexual abuse accusations. His alleged victims included the late singer Aaliyah, who Kelly briefly and illegally married in 1994 when she was 15. Aaliyah died in a 2001 plane crash. Many accusations against Kelly were included in the January 2019 Lifetime documentary "Surviving R. Kelly." "We commend the survivors for their bravery in speaking out and sharing their stories," Lifetime and the documentary`s producers said in a joint statement. "They have opened up important conversations on sexual abuse that needed to happen." Several witnesses testified that Kelly instilled fear if his victims did not fulfill his every need, sexual and otherwise. Jurors heard how Kelly would compel victims to follow "Rob`s rules," including that they call him "Daddy" and get permission to eat or go to the bathroom. Witnesses said Kelly pressed accusers to write "apology letters" to potentially absolve him of wrongdoing, and concealed before intercourse that he had contracted herpes. `NO MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.` One witness, who identified herself as Sonja, testified she had hoped to interview Kelly for a radio station where she was interning, when he locked her up for at least two days without food or water and then assaulted her. "I`ve been hiding from Robert Kelly in fear," Sonja said in a statement read by her lawyer Gloria Allred. "I`m ready to start living my life free from fear and to start the healing process." Allred alluded after the verdict to Cannick`s closing argument where he invoked the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in urging jurors to show courage and acquit Kelly. "Despite the fact that he thought he could control all of his victims, he was wrong," Allred told reporters, referring to Kelly. "Based on the evidence, the jury must have concluded that R. Kelly is no Martin Luther King Jr." Kelly did not testify in his defense. His lawyers had sought to portray Kelly`s accusers as former fans who felt jilted when they fell from his favor, and that their sex with Kelly was consensual. They also tried to show how some accusers stayed with Kelly long after the alleged abuses began, and questioned why they failed to go to the police or waited years to come forward. On top of the conviction, Kelly still faces federal charges in Chicago on child pornography and obstruction, and state charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

R Kelly convicted of luring women, underage girls for sex

R. Kelly's defense team on Thursday dubbed the singer a "sex symbol" who led a "playboy life" during its closing arguments against charges he led an abusive sex crime ring for decades.

Casting the artist's alleged victims -- whose accusations included rape, druggings, imprisonment and child pornography as well as physical and emotional abuse -- as money-hungry groupies, attorney Deveraux Cannick said the government was vying to criminalize behavior he argued is common among international superstars.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-prosecution-details-r-kelly-sex-crime-universe-in-closing-arguments-415059" hreflang="en">Prosecution details R. Kelly sex crime 'universe' in closing arguments</a>

"His label started marketing him as a sex symbol, as a playboy, so he started living a sex symbol, playboy life," the lawyer told the jury.&nbsp;

"Where's the crime in that?"

The defense attorney's summation followed six hours of meticulous closing arguments from the prosecution, which painted a picture of a crime boss who inflicted chilling abuse on women and teenagers for decades with the support of his employees and entourage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/former-r-kelly-assistant-testifies-about-singers-sexual-activity-apology-letter-413918">Former R Kelly assistant testifies about singer's sexual activity, 'apology letter'</a>

After he finished assistant US attorney Nadia Shihata began delivering the prosecution's rebuttal, calling the defense's tactics "absurd" and "shameful."

"Don't let them gaslight you," she said, saying the defense was insinuating that "all of these women and girls were asking for it and they deserved what they got."

Cannick used a mocking tone when referring to alleged victims' testimony -- nine women and two men took the stand saying Kelly had sexually abused them -- poking at their credibility and dismissing them as just "working on those paydays."

"A lot of people are surviving off of R. Kelly," he argued, making a play on the name of the "Surviving R. Kelly" docuseries that reignited focus on the long history of accusations against the singer.

In a bizarre opening, Cannick began his feverish remarks by evoking Martin Luther King Jr., saying Kelly was only trying to "protest injustice" as the iconic civil rights leader had.

He went on to tell jurors "it's not a crime, kinky sex" and that "some people just like" relationships between an older man and a "younger female."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-r-kelly-accuser-says-she-reached-200000-settlement-after-herpes-diagnosis-410595">R Kelly accuser says she reached $200,000 settlement after herpes diagnosis</a>

"You heard about a man who treated these women like gold," Cannick said. "He bought them bags more expensive than cars."

The artist born Robert Sylvester Kelly faces one count of racketeering and eight violations of the Mann Act, which bans transporting people across state lines for sex.

The singer of "I Believe I Can Fly" fame denies all charges.&nbsp;

The prosecution's rebuttal will continue into Friday, and the jury is expected to soon begin deliberating Kelly's fate.

R. Kelly's defense team on Thursday dubbed the singer a "sex symbol" who led a "playboy life" during its closing arguments against charges he led an abusive sex crime ring for decades.

R. Kelly's defense team on Thursday dubbed the singer a "sex symbol" who led a "playboy life" during its closing arguments against charges he led an abusive sex crime ring for decades. Casting the artist's alleged victims -- whose accusations included rape, druggings, imprisonment and child pornography as well as physical and emotional abuse -- as money-hungry groupies, attorney Deveraux Cannick said the government was vying to criminalize behavior he argued is common among international superstars. Prosecution details R. Kelly sex crime 'universe' in closing arguments "His label started marketing him as a sex symbol, as a playboy, so he started living a sex symbol, playboy life," the lawyer told the jury. "Where's the crime in that?" The defense attorney's summation followed six hours of meticulous closing arguments from the prosecution, which painted a picture of a crime boss who inflicted chilling abuse on women and teenagers for decades with the support of his employees and entourage. Former R Kelly assistant testifies about singer's sexual activity, 'apology letter' After he finished assistant US attorney Nadia Shihata began delivering the prosecution's rebuttal, calling the defense's tactics "absurd" and "shameful." "Don't let them gaslight you," she said, saying the defense was insinuating that "all of these women and girls were asking for it and they deserved what they got." Cannick used a mocking tone when referring to alleged victims' testimony -- nine women and two men took the stand saying Kelly had sexually abused them -- poking at their credibility and dismissing them as just "working on those paydays." "A lot of people are surviving off of R. Kelly," he argued, making a play on the name of the "Surviving R. Kelly" docuseries that reignited focus on the long history of accusations against the singer. In a bizarre opening, Cannick began his feverish remarks by evoking Martin Luther King Jr., saying Kelly was only trying to "protest injustice" as the iconic civil rights leader had. He went on to tell jurors "it's not a crime, kinky sex" and that "some people just like" relationships between an older man and a "younger female." R Kelly accuser says she reached $200,000 settlement after herpes diagnosis "You heard about a man who treated these women like gold," Cannick said. "He bought them bags more expensive than cars." The artist born Robert Sylvester Kelly faces one count of racketeering and eight violations of the Mann Act, which bans transporting people across state lines for sex. The singer of "I Believe I Can Fly" fame denies all charges. The prosecution's rebuttal will continue into Friday, and the jury is expected to soon begin deliberating Kelly's fate.

R. Kelly lawyer defends artist's 'playboy life'

Singer R. Kelly used "lies, manipulation, threats and physical abuse" to operate an "enterprise" enabling him to commit decades of sex crimes, the prosecution said during marathon closing arguments Wednesday.

In ushering the lurid trial towards its finish, assistant US attorney Elizabeth Geddes kicked off the first two hours of her lengthy summation by telling the jury the once-dominant R&amp;B artist "used his money and public persona to hide his crimes in plain sight."

The government is tasked with proving the 54-year-old singer operated a criminal ring of associates who facilitated his abuse of women and teenagers, alleged victims whom, according to six weeks of testimony, the artist preyed on sexually, physically and emotionally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/former-r-kelly-assistant-testifies-about-singers-sexual-activity-apology-letter-413918">Former R Kelly assistant testifies about singer's sexual activity, 'apology letter'</a>

"Without them at this service, the defendant could not have carried out his pattern of crime for nearly three decades," Geddes told the jury, standing before a poster board displaying images of members in his orbit, photos that revolved around Kelly's mugshot.

Describing the "Robert Kelly-centric universe," the prosecutor said his employees and entourage either directly carried out criminal activity or "enabled" it when they "didn't ask questions" and "effectively enforced the defendant's rules."

"They were a means to his criminal ends," Geddes said.

The prosecution's closing arguments followed three days of disjointed questioning and testimony from the singer's defense, which called five witnesses including former employees and a childhood friend who said they hadn't personally seen the harrowing abuse Kelly, now 54, is accused of inflicting.

The artist opted against taking the stand.

The mere hours of defense evidence came after more than a month of graphic testimony presented by the prosecution.

With 45 witnesses including 11 accusers -- nine women and two men -- government attorneys vied to illustrate systematic abuse by Kelly, and the coterie of associates he orchestrated.

- Jury deliberation approaches -

Women said they were raped, beaten, drugged, imprisoned and sometimes denied food or access to bathrooms.&nbsp;

Six of the alleged victims were underage when Kelly initiated sex with them. Many victims also said the singer routinely filmed the encounters, which in several of the cases would constitute child pornography.

One woman said Kelly coerced her into getting an abortion when she was a teenager. Four said they contracted herpes after sexual contact with the singer, who they said did not disclose that he carried the incurable virus.

The charges center around six women: Jerhonda, Stephanie, Faith, Sonja and a woman who testified under a pseudonym, along with Aaliyah, the R&amp;B singer who died in a plane crash in 2001 but whom Kelly illegally married when she was 15.

Several more victims alleging abuse who are not included in the indictment were allowed to testify as part of the prosecution's bid to detail a criminal pattern.

During cross-examination, defense lawyers aimed to cast accusers as aggrieved superfans who became "spiteful" when relationships with the superstar ended.&nbsp;

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The artist born Robert Sylvester Kelly faces one count of racketeering and eight violations of the Mann Act, which bans transporting people across state lines for sex.

He denies all charges. In addition to his Brooklyn trial, Kelly faces prosecutions in three more jurisdictions, including in Illinois federal court on child pornography and obstruction counts.

His New York trial is the first time the singer, who ruled the pop and R&amp;B charts in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits including "I Believe I Can Fly," has faced federal prosecution.

He was acquitted after a controversial state trial in Chicago in 2008, on charges of child pornography.

Following closing statements in the Brooklyn federal courthouse, which are expected to continue at least into Thursday, the jury of seven men and five women will begin deliberating Kelly's fate.

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Singer R. Kelly used "lies, manipulation, threats and physical abuse" to operate an "enterprise" enabling him to commit decades of sex crimes, the prosecution said during marathon closing arguments Wednesday.

Singer R. Kelly used "lies, manipulation, threats and physical abuse" to operate an "enterprise" enabling him to commit decades of sex crimes, the prosecution said during marathon closing arguments Wednesday. In ushering the lurid trial towards its finish, assistant US attorney Elizabeth Geddes kicked off the first two hours of her lengthy summation by telling the jury the once-dominant R&B artist "used his money and public persona to hide his crimes in plain sight." The government is tasked with proving the 54-year-old singer operated a criminal ring of associates who facilitated his abuse of women and teenagers, alleged victims whom, according to six weeks of testimony, the artist preyed on sexually, physically and emotionally. Former R Kelly assistant testifies about singer's sexual activity, 'apology letter' "Without them at this service, the defendant could not have carried out his pattern of crime for nearly three decades," Geddes told the jury, standing before a poster board displaying images of members in his orbit, photos that revolved around Kelly's mugshot. Describing the "Robert Kelly-centric universe," the prosecutor said his employees and entourage either directly carried out criminal activity or "enabled" it when they "didn't ask questions" and "effectively enforced the defendant's rules." "They were a means to his criminal ends," Geddes said. The prosecution's closing arguments followed three days of disjointed questioning and testimony from the singer's defense, which called five witnesses including former employees and a childhood friend who said they hadn't personally seen the harrowing abuse Kelly, now 54, is accused of inflicting. The artist opted against taking the stand. The mere hours of defense evidence came after more than a month of graphic testimony presented by the prosecution. With 45 witnesses including 11 accusers -- nine women and two men -- government attorneys vied to illustrate systematic abuse by Kelly, and the coterie of associates he orchestrated. - Jury deliberation approaches - Women said they were raped, beaten, drugged, imprisoned and sometimes denied food or access to bathrooms. Six of the alleged victims were underage when Kelly initiated sex with them. Many victims also said the singer routinely filmed the encounters, which in several of the cases would constitute child pornography. One woman said Kelly coerced her into getting an abortion when she was a teenager. Four said they contracted herpes after sexual contact with the singer, who they said did not disclose that he carried the incurable virus. The charges center around six women: Jerhonda, Stephanie, Faith, Sonja and a woman who testified under a pseudonym, along with Aaliyah, the R&B singer who died in a plane crash in 2001 but whom Kelly illegally married when she was 15. Several more victims alleging abuse who are not included in the indictment were allowed to testify as part of the prosecution's bid to detail a criminal pattern. During cross-examination, defense lawyers aimed to cast accusers as aggrieved superfans who became "spiteful" when relationships with the superstar ended. R Kelly accuser says she reached $200,000 settlement after herpes diagnosis The artist born Robert Sylvester Kelly faces one count of racketeering and eight violations of the Mann Act, which bans transporting people across state lines for sex. He denies all charges. In addition to his Brooklyn trial, Kelly faces prosecutions in three more jurisdictions, including in Illinois federal court on child pornography and obstruction counts. His New York trial is the first time the singer, who ruled the pop and R&B charts in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits including "I Believe I Can Fly," has faced federal prosecution. He was acquitted after a controversial state trial in Chicago in 2008, on charges of child pornography. Following closing statements in the Brooklyn federal courthouse, which are expected to continue at least into Thursday, the jury of seven men and five women will begin deliberating Kelly's fate. Coldplay shares audio teaser of their first song with BTS two days before its official release

Prosecution details R. Kelly sex crime 'universe' in closing arguments

A former assistant to<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/now-r-kelly-accused-of-sexually-exploiting-a-17-year-old-boy-409671"> R&nbsp;Kelly</a> testified on Friday she once saw him engage in sexual activity with one of the women he is charged with abusing, as prosecutors neared the end of presenting their sex trafficking case against the R&amp;B singer. 
 
On the 18th day of testimony at Kelly`s trial in federal court in Brooklyn, Cheryl Mack, the mother of music producer London on da Track, said she saw the woman begin to massage Kelly while backstage at a Connecticut concert where he was performing. 
 
"That was kind of my cue to leave," Mack said. "I was very uncomfortable." She said that as she left the room she caught a glimpse of the woman moving her head toward Kelly`s groin.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/hollywood/news-r-kelly-accuser-says-she-reached-200000-settlement-after-herpes-diagnosis-410595" hreflang="en">R Kelly accuser says she reached $200,000 settlement after herpes diagnosis</a> 
 
Mack also said Kelly lost his temper in 2015 after she supposedly ruined a surprise birthday party for former stylist Kash Howard, and had her sign an "apology letter" that included false claims she accepted kickbacks from booking agents. 
"I apologized out of fear," Mack said. 
 
Several witnesses have testified that Kelly made them write apology letters, purportedly to absolve him of misconduct, but which prosecutors could use to illustrate the tight control that witnesses have said Kelly demanded over those around him.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/r-kelly-accuser-says-she-saw-a-nearby-gun-while-forced-to-have-oral-sex-410080" hreflang="en">R Kelly accuser says she saw a nearby gun while forced to have oral sex</a> 
 
Friday`s final prosecution witness was Dawn Hughes, a clinical psychologist who discussed how people might groom underage girls for sex, and how victims cope with the trauma. Defence lawyers are expected to cross-examine her on Monday. 
 
Kelly, 54, has pleaded not guilty to charges over his alleged grooming and preying on women and girls as far back as the mid-1990s when he shot to stardom with music including the 1996 smash 'I Believe I Can Fly.' 
 
The singer, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, faces one count of racketeering and eight counts of illegally transporting people across state lines for prostitution. 
 
Kelly`s indictment said he abused six women and underage girls including the singer Aaliyah, who Kelly married illegally in 1994 when she was 15. Aaliyah died in a 2001 plane crash. 
 
Prosecution witnesses have said Kelly instilled fear as he demanded they follow his stringent rules, including by having women and girls call him "Daddy," and punished those who disobeyed, including by demanding unwanted sex. 
 
Kelly`s lawyers have tried to portray his accusers as fans who once hoped to capitalize on the singer`s fame but felt jilted, and questioned why they and former employees failed to leave Kelly sooner or go to the police. 
 
Deveraux Cannick, one of Kelly`s lawyers, tried while cross-examining Mack to show jurors she should have known not to sign an apology letter, given that she was in her late 40s and had many years of music industry experience. "I wasn`t thinking at all," Mack told him. 
The trial began on Aug. 18. 
 
Kelly has faced sexual abuse accusations for nearly two decades. Scrutiny increased after the #MeToo movement began in late 2017, and Lifetime aired the documentary 'Surviving R&nbsp;Kelly'&nbsp;in January 2019. 
 
Kelly also faces sex-related charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

A former assistant to R Kelly testified on Friday she once saw him engage in sexual activity with one of the women he is charged with abusing, as prosecutors neared the end of presenting their sex trafficking case against the R&B singer.

A former assistant to R Kelly testified on Friday she once saw him engage in sexual activity with one of the women he is charged with abusing, as prosecutors neared the end of presenting their sex trafficking case against the R&B singer. On the 18th day of testimony at Kelly`s trial in federal court in Brooklyn, Cheryl Mack, the mother of music producer London on da Track, said she saw the woman begin to massage Kelly while backstage at a Connecticut concert where he was performing. "That was kind of my cue to leave," Mack said. "I was very uncomfortable." She said that as she left the room she caught a glimpse of the woman moving her head toward Kelly`s groin. R Kelly accuser says she reached $200,000 settlement after herpes diagnosis Mack also said Kelly lost his temper in 2015 after she supposedly ruined a surprise birthday party for former stylist Kash Howard, and had her sign an "apology letter" that included false claims she accepted kickbacks from booking agents. "I apologized out of fear," Mack said. Several witnesses have testified that Kelly made them write apology letters, purportedly to absolve him of misconduct, but which prosecutors could use to illustrate the tight control that witnesses have said Kelly demanded over those around him. R Kelly accuser says she saw a nearby gun while forced to have oral sex Friday`s final prosecution witness was Dawn Hughes, a clinical psychologist who discussed how people might groom underage girls for sex, and how victims cope with the trauma. Defence lawyers are expected to cross-examine her on Monday. Kelly, 54, has pleaded not guilty to charges over his alleged grooming and preying on women and girls as far back as the mid-1990s when he shot to stardom with music including the 1996 smash 'I Believe I Can Fly.' The singer, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, faces one count of racketeering and eight counts of illegally transporting people across state lines for prostitution. Kelly`s indictment said he abused six women and underage girls including the singer Aaliyah, who Kelly married illegally in 1994 when she was 15. Aaliyah died in a 2001 plane crash. Prosecution witnesses have said Kelly instilled fear as he demanded they follow his stringent rules, including by having women and girls call him "Daddy," and punished those who disobeyed, including by demanding unwanted sex. Kelly`s lawyers have tried to portray his accusers as fans who once hoped to capitalize on the singer`s fame but felt jilted, and questioned why they and former employees failed to leave Kelly sooner or go to the police. Deveraux Cannick, one of Kelly`s lawyers, tried while cross-examining Mack to show jurors she should have known not to sign an apology letter, given that she was in her late 40s and had many years of music industry experience. "I wasn`t thinking at all," Mack told him. The trial began on Aug. 18. Kelly has faced sexual abuse accusations for nearly two decades. Scrutiny increased after the #MeToo movement began in late 2017, and Lifetime aired the documentary 'Surviving R Kelly' in January 2019. Kelly also faces sex-related charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

Former R Kelly assistant testifies about singer's sexual activity, 'apology letter'

A woman who accuses R. Kelly of sexually abusing her told jurors at his racketeering trial on Wednesday that she was unnerved when she saw a gun near where the R&amp;B singer forced her to perform oral sex on him. 
 
In her second day of testimony, the woman, who identified herself as Faith, said the Los Angeles encounter took place in January 2018, near the end of an 11-month relationship during which Kelly flew her several times to concerts or recording studios and trained her to please him sexually. 
 
Faith, who said she was 19 when she met the then-50-year-old Kelly at a San Antonio concert in March 2017, testified that the gun left her "intimidated" and fearful of what would happen if she tried to leave. 
 
"I wasn`t even going to step out of line," she told the jury of seven men and five women in Brooklyn federal court. 
 
On cross-examination, Kelly`s lawyer Deveraux Cannick tried to poke holes in Faith`s testimony, trying to show jurors it was her choice to keep seeing the singer despite her claims she did not always welcome his sexual advances. 
 
"You participated on your own will," Cannick said to Faith. 
 
Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has been on trial since Aug. 18 for running what prosecutors called a decades-long scheme targeting women and girls for sex, with the help of employees and assistants in his entourage. 
 
Known for the 1996 Grammy-winning song "I Believe I Can Fly," the 54-year-old Kelly has pleaded not guilty to one racketeering count and eight counts of violating an interstate sex trafficking law. 
 
Faith said her relationship with Kelly ended in February 2018 at a hotel in Manhattan, where she resisted his desire for sex and made it physically difficult for him to attempt intercourse. 
 
"I know I had pissed him off," Faith said. 
 
Soon after returning home to Texas, Faith said she tested positive for type-1 herpes. 
 
She blamed Kelly, and said he would not discuss it on a later phone call, after she had hired legal counsel. 
 
"I knew it was him," Faith said. 
 
Cannick challenged some of Faith`s recollections, asking how she could remember so many details of her final interactions with Kelly in 2018 when "you don`t remember what time you met with (prosecutors) on Sunday." 
 
Faith also said she did not like being labeled a "victim" of Kelly, mirroring her comments from an earlier podcast. 
 
"You`re not a victim?" Cannick asked. 
 
"Correct," Faith responded. 
 
Kelly`s indictment describes the alleged mistreatment of six women and girls, including the late singer Aaliyah. A male accuser has also said Kelly sexually abused him. 
 
Several accusers, including Faith, and former employees have testified that Kelly demanded strict obedience to his rules even as he preyed on women and girls, including aspiring singers who hoped he could advance their own music careers. 
 
Other testimony for the prosecution came from Faith`s mother, and from the minister who oversaw Kelly`s 1994 wedding to Aaliyah, when Kelly was 27 and Aaliyah was 15. The marriage was annulled after six months. 
 
Coronavirus protocols have required the press and public to watch the trial in overflow courtrooms with video feeds. 
 
Before Wednesday`s testimony, Assistant U.S. Attorney Nadia Shihata said negative comments had been made on Tuesday in an overflow courtroom, with one person calling a witness a "stupid bitch." 
 
Kelly`s lawyers declined to comment when asked if it wanted to respond. 
 
Many sexual abuse accusations against Kelly were discussed in the 2019 Lifetime documentary "Surviving R. Kelly." Kelly also faces sex-related charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

A woman who accuses R. Kelly of sexually abusing her told jurors at his racketeering trial on Wednesday that she was unnerved when she saw a gun near where the R&B singer forced her to perform oral sex on him.

A woman who accuses R. Kelly of sexually abusing her told jurors at his racketeering trial on Wednesday that she was unnerved when she saw a gun near where the R&B singer forced her to perform oral sex on him. In her second day of testimony, the woman, who identified herself as Faith, said the Los Angeles encounter took place in January 2018, near the end of an 11-month relationship during which Kelly flew her several times to concerts or recording studios and trained her to please him sexually. Faith, who said she was 19 when she met the then-50-year-old Kelly at a San Antonio concert in March 2017, testified that the gun left her "intimidated" and fearful of what would happen if she tried to leave. "I wasn`t even going to step out of line," she told the jury of seven men and five women in Brooklyn federal court. On cross-examination, Kelly`s lawyer Deveraux Cannick tried to poke holes in Faith`s testimony, trying to show jurors it was her choice to keep seeing the singer despite her claims she did not always welcome his sexual advances. "You participated on your own will," Cannick said to Faith. Kelly, whose full name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, has been on trial since Aug. 18 for running what prosecutors called a decades-long scheme targeting women and girls for sex, with the help of employees and assistants in his entourage. Known for the 1996 Grammy-winning song "I Believe I Can Fly," the 54-year-old Kelly has pleaded not guilty to one racketeering count and eight counts of violating an interstate sex trafficking law. Faith said her relationship with Kelly ended in February 2018 at a hotel in Manhattan, where she resisted his desire for sex and made it physically difficult for him to attempt intercourse. "I know I had pissed him off," Faith said. Soon after returning home to Texas, Faith said she tested positive for type-1 herpes. She blamed Kelly, and said he would not discuss it on a later phone call, after she had hired legal counsel. "I knew it was him," Faith said. Cannick challenged some of Faith`s recollections, asking how she could remember so many details of her final interactions with Kelly in 2018 when "you don`t remember what time you met with (prosecutors) on Sunday." Faith also said she did not like being labeled a "victim" of Kelly, mirroring her comments from an earlier podcast. "You`re not a victim?" Cannick asked. "Correct," Faith responded. Kelly`s indictment describes the alleged mistreatment of six women and girls, including the late singer Aaliyah. A male accuser has also said Kelly sexually abused him. Several accusers, including Faith, and former employees have testified that Kelly demanded strict obedience to his rules even as he preyed on women and girls, including aspiring singers who hoped he could advance their own music careers. Other testimony for the prosecution came from Faith`s mother, and from the minister who oversaw Kelly`s 1994 wedding to Aaliyah, when Kelly was 27 and Aaliyah was 15. The marriage was annulled after six months. Coronavirus protocols have required the press and public to watch the trial in overflow courtrooms with video feeds. Before Wednesday`s testimony, Assistant U.S. Attorney Nadia Shihata said negative comments had been made on Tuesday in an overflow courtroom, with one person calling a witness a "stupid bitch." Kelly`s lawyers declined to comment when asked if it wanted to respond. Many sexual abuse accusations against Kelly were discussed in the 2019 Lifetime documentary "Surviving R. Kelly." Kelly also faces sex-related charges in Illinois and Minnesota.

R Kelly accuser says she saw a nearby gun while forced to have oral sex

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