R. Kelly’s 30-year sentence upheld by appeals court in sex trafficking case
A federal appeals court in Manhattan upheld R. Kelly’s convictions for racketeering and sex trafficking, along with his 30-year prison sentence, on Wednesday. The singer, convicted in 2021, used his fame for over 25 years to abuse young girls and women.
Kelly’s legal team’s arguments against the verdict, including challenges to the evidence and constitutionality of laws, were rejected. The court ruled that Kelly, with the help of his entourage, manipulated and isolated victims, subjecting them to physical and sexual abuse.
The court also allowed explicit videos and testimony from victims, including about Kelly exposing them to STDs without disclosure.
Once celebrated for hits like I Believe I Can Fly, Kelly’s career has been overshadowed by abuse allegations dating back to the 1990s. His team hopes the Supreme Court will review his appeal.
