An Illinois prosecutor on Monday dropped 10. Sex assault charges against singer R Kelly. Saying cost was one of the factors weighing in his decision.
Kelly, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, is already serving a 30-year sentence. On federal racketeering and sex trafficking charges. After pleading guilty in New York last year.
Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Fox told reporters. Her office believes “justice” has been served with the two convictions. He said his office’s “limited resources and court time.” Were the final factors, noting that it found the allegations credible.
Fox announced the state’s lawsuit in 2019. Saying the incidents took place from May 1998 to January 2010. Kelly faces three to seven years in prison for each charge if convicted.
In January 2019, Lifetime aired a six-part documentary called “Surviving. And Kelly” in which many women alleged that Kelly abused them emotionally. Physically and sexually. Fox urged potential victims to come forward to speak with. His office about possible criminal activity after the series. Fox said Monday that it consulted with the accused women.
“I know firsthand how hard it is for you to tell your story,” Fox said. “Four years ago, I stood on this stage and shared the story of a survivor. And my full understanding of what it means to go through. What can be one of the most terrifying experiences in front of strangers. And these women, all them black, will be heard. Believing he came forward. For sexual purposes and engaging in prostitution with a minor.
Kelly’s attorneys said he plans to appeal both federal sentences.