Embattled R and B singer, Robert Kelly, more popularly known as R.Kelly has been charged with 10 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. The charg
Embattled R and B singer, Robert Kelly, more popularly known as R.Kelly has been charged with 10 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. The charge is a class 2 felony in Illinois, and each charge carries a maximum sentence of 3 to 7 years in prison.
The indictment accuses Kelly of sexual acts with three children older than 13 but younger than 17. There is no age range listed for one of the alleged victims. The charges say Kelly used force or the threat of force. A grand jury had convened about a week ago to investigate a sex tape that Attorney, Michael Avenatti handed over to authorities. Two women testified for the grand jury over the last week, including one who provided physical evidence. As many as a dozen women came forward to testify.
Sources connected to the case says the tape was a pivotal force leading to the charges. Avenatti and his client spent a significant amount of time with the Cook County State’s Attorney and the grand jury in the last few weeks. Avenatti says he uncovered the VHS tape during a months-long investigation into allegations his clients made about Kelly having sex with minors.
The tape reportedly shows Kelly having sex with a girl who seems to be 14, with both Kelly and the girl referring to her genitals and other body parts as being 14 years old. It’s still unclear when the tape was shot, but Avenatti said he was sure it fell within the statue of limitations
“This tape leaves no question as to whether R. Kelly is guilty of multiple criminal sexual abuse, illegal acts against a 14-year-old girl,” Aventi told reporters.
The VHS tape, which is 42 minutes and 45 seconds, clear and explicit. It appears to show Kelly having sex with a girl who refers to her body parts as 14 years old.
R Kelly turned himself in on Friday night, just hours after Chicago police issued a warrant for his arrest. He arrived in a large, black van wearing a hoodie under an electric blue puffer jacket. He waded through a sea of reporters asking but he did not respond. Once he entered the building, he was handcuffed and led away by police. His arraignment is set for March 8.
