R. Kelly's convictions and 30-year prison term upheld
R. Kelly’s convictions and 30-year prison term upheld by federal appeals court
Source: Cook County Department of Corrections / Cook County Department of Corrections
R. Kelly’s convictions and 30-year prison term upheld by federal appeals court
A federal appeals court has upheld singer R. Kelly’s racketeering convictions and a 30-year prison sentence, finding he exploited his fame for over a quarter century to sexually abuse girls and young women. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan ruled after hearing arguments last March. Kelly’s attorney plans to appeal to the Supreme Court, arguing that the ruling gives prosecutors excessive discretion. The court rejected Kelly’s arguments about trial evidence, constitutionality of laws, juror bias, and improper rulings. The court also upheld the admission of graphic videos as evidence of Kelly’s control over his victims.