R Kelly convicted in sex trafficking trial
NEW YORK: R Kelly, the R&B superstar known for his anthem ‘I Believe I Can Fly,’ was convicted Monday in a sex trafficking trial after decades of avoiding criminal responsibility for allegations of misconduct with young women and children.
A jury found Kelly guilty of all nine counts, including racketeering. Kelly wore a face mask below black-rimmed glasses, remaining motionless with eyes downcast, as the verdict was read.
Prosecutors alleged that the entourage of managers and aides who helped Kelly meet girls — and keep them obedient and quiet — amounted to a criminal enterprise. He faces decades in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 4.
Several accusers testified in lurid detail during the trial, alleging that Kelly subjected them to perverse and sadistic whims when they were minors.
For years, the public and news media seemed to be more amused than horrified by allegations of inappropriate relationships with minors with public condemnation not coming until a widely watched docuseries, “Surviving R. Kelly” gave voice to accusers.
“To the victims in this case, your voices were heard and justice was finally served,” acting US Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis said.
Gloria Allred, a lawyer for some of Kelly’s accusers, said that of all the predators she’s gone after — a list including Harvey Weinstein and Jeffrey Epstein — “Mr Kelly is the worst.” Kelly has been in jail since in 2019. Monday’s case is only part of the legal peril facing him. He also has pleaded not guilty to charges in Illinois and Minnesota. Trial dates for those are yet to be set.