Famous rhythm and blues musician R. Kelly was convicted in relation to five counts of sex traffic and racketeering. As per the AP (Associated Press), jurors in Brooklyn made their ruling on their second deliberation day, with the latter counts constituting 20-year imprisonment.
The singer was blamed for using his managers and entourage to meet girls over six decades. Many women gave evidence in the lawsuit, accusing the musician of sexually, psychologically and physically assaulting them in their childhood.
Lawyer Gloria Allred made the conviction-related news public through a news conference held around the courthouse in downtown Brooklyn. The attorney also stated that the convict once told one of her customers, who testified in the lawsuit, that he was a genius.
The musician made a not-guilty plea as his attorneys asserted that the women defendants wished to exploit his fortune and fame. His lawyer added that the defendants were disappointed that the trial happened, citing inconsistencies in their allegations against Kelly.
Racketeering entailed the sexual exploitation of a girl, kidnapping and compulsory labor. The musician also breached the White-Slave Traffic Act, a law that prohibits human trafficking for sexual exploitation beyond state lines. Under the four charges associated with the White-Slave Traffic Act, the singer was blamed for transporting, pressurizing and luring multiple women.
Many years ago, Chicago’s judicial system found Kelly not guilty of child pornography. Kelly was convicted in the State of New York, but he faces multiple charges in Minnesota and Illinois. Sentencing in this case is slated for May 04, 2021, as well.
