The US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York announced on Monday that a Brooklyn federal jury made a decision in the trial of R. Kelly. Former R&B singer, born Robert Sylvester Kelly (R. Kelly), has been found guilty of all counts. He faced one count of racketeering and eight violations of the Mann Act.
These charges date back over a span of decades that involve six key complaints from witnesses. R. Kelly, 54 years old, was also accused of knowingly passing on sexually transmitted diseases, kidnapping and bribery, forced labor and child pornography. There were over 45 witnesses in the trial that lasted a little over five weeks. Since his indictment in February of 2019, R. Kelly maintained that he was innocent and his defense was to depict the accusers as fans and groupies that lied about their involvement and relationships with him.
“We hope that today’s verdict brings some measure of comfort and closure to the victims,”
Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis told reporters.
R. Kelly is facing decades in prision for these charges. Sentencing is scheduled for May 4, 2022 and his troubles don’t end in New York; R. Kelly faces multiple other federal charges Chicago and state charges in Illinois and Minnesota that include enticement of a minor, obstruction of justice, child pornography and including aggravated sexual abuse, prostitution and solicitation of a minor.
Lynnecia S. Eley is Founder & Managing Editor of Soigne’ + Swank Magazine. She is a career-driven entrepreneur, wife, and mother. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, she is an award-winning University Assistant Dean and Adjunct Professor committed to excellence, dedication, and caring for others. Known as the Confidence Doula, Lynnecia is a best-selling author and coach, a founder of Two Queens Media and Black & Ivy League, Inc. You can learn more about Lynnecia and her platforms at www.shecaninspire.com.
