R. Kelly’s convictions for racketeering and sex trafficking were upheld by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan on Wednesday. The court's ruling confirmed that Kelly exploited his fame for over 25 years to perpetrate sexual abuse against girls and young women. The singer, known for hits like "I Believe I Can Fly," was convicted in 2021 in a Brooklyn federal court on multiple charges related to these crimes.
Following the ruling, Kelly's attorney, Jennifer Bonjean, expressed intentions to appeal to the Supreme Court, arguing that the appellate court's decision allows prosecutors excessive discretion in applying racketeering laws. The previous year, the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal related to a 20-year sentence Kelly received in Chicago for child sex charges.
The 2nd Circuit dismissed Kelly's claims regarding inadequate trial evidence and questioned the constitutionality of certain laws used against him. The court noted that evidence presented showed that Kelly had a network of managers and staff who facilitated his abuse, isolating victims and exerting control over their lives. Testimonies from victims who claimed Kelly transmitted herpes without disclosure were deemed relevant and not unduly prejudicial.
Bonjean also referenced a dissent from one judge regarding a restitution award for a victim, arguing that it unfairly enriched government witnesses. Kelly's extensive career continued despite long-standing allegations of abuse, which gained renewed attention during the #MeToo movement and following the documentary "Surviving R. Kelly."