A federal appeals court in Manhattan has upheld R. Kelly’s 30-year prison sentence, rejecting his appeal and reaffirming his convictions for sex crimes.
The court also upheld his convictions for racketeering and sex trafficking, rejecting his legal team’s efforts to overturn them.
The ruling marks another legal defeat for the disgraced R&B singer, who was first convicted in 2021 on charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. In 2022, he received an additional 20-year sentence in Chicago for child sex crimes, including producing child sexual abuse material.
Judges reject Kelly’s defense
On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the appeals court ruled that Kelly, now 58, used his celebrity status to manipulate and sexually exploit underage girls and young women.
A three-judge panel dismissed his argument that prosecutors had failed to prove he orchestrated a criminal scheme to recruit victims for sex.
The court’s decision emphasized the systematic nature of Kelly’s actions. “Enabled by a network of managers, assistants, and other staff for over 25 years, Kelly used his fame to lure young women and girls into his control,” the judges stated.
They noted that evidence at trial showed he isolated his victims from their families and friends, imposed strict rules on their lives, and subjected them to physical, sexual, and verbal abuse.
Kelly’s lawyer plans supreme court appeal
Kelly’s legal team, led by attorney Jennifer Bonjean, responded swiftly to the decision. In a statement, Bonjean said she intends to take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
The ruling cements Kelly’s status as one of the most high-profile figures convicted in the wake of the #MeToo movement. His sentencing followed years of allegations, investigations, and public outcry.
From superstar to convicted criminal
Kelly, once a best-selling artist with millions of fans worldwide, fell from grace as survivors came forward with harrowing testimonies of abuse. The allegations gained momentum after the 2019 documentary Surviving R. Kelly, which exposed his pattern of predatory behavior.
During his trial, prosecutors detailed how Kelly maintained control over his victims through intimidation and coercion. Witnesses described a disturbing system in which he dictated every aspect of their lives, from what they wore to when they could eat or use the bathroom.
Survivors applaud the ruling
The court’s decision sends a strong message about accountability in the entertainment industry. Advocates for survivors praised the ruling, calling it a victory for those who had the courage to speak out.
![R Kelly. [ Photo credit: Google]](https://newdailyprime.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/OIP-15.jpg)
Despite the legal setbacks, Kelly maintains his innocence. His legal team argues that his conviction was based on flawed evidence and an unfair trial. However, with multiple convictions across different jurisdictions, his chances of overturning his sentence remain slim.
What’s next for R. Kelly?
Kelly is currently serving his time in federal prison. Even if his latest appeal to the Supreme Court moves forward, legal experts say it is unlikely to succeed. His convictions are based on extensive evidence, including testimonies from numerous victims, former employees, and other witnesses.
As the case progresses, survivors and advocacy groups continue to call for justice beyond Kelly’s conviction. Many argue that those who enabled his abuse should also be held accountable.
For now, R. Kelly remains behind bars, serving a sentence that reflects the severity of his crimes. With the latest ruling, his legal battle continues, but the path to freedom appears increasingly narrow.
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