Addressing R. Kelly's convictions for racketeering and sex trafficking, federal prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum that “He continued his crimes and avoided punishment for almost 30 years and now must be held to account."
Defense lawyer Jennifer Bonjean had argued that Kelly’s Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination could be violated if he’s sentenced for his New York-based crimes before the next trial in Illinois.
Jennifer Bonjean, who filed a successful appeal for Bill Cosby, has been granted extra time to file an appeal for R. Kelly, who has contracted COVID-19.
The pop star's music continues to be available on YouTube Music, the platform's audio-streaming service and is still available on Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon Music.
Barry Hankerson, who introduced his niece Aaliyah Haughton to R. Kelly when she was a kid, said the convicted singer is "going to get whatever he’s got coming."
"I am happy to finally close this chapter of my life," said Jerhonda Pace, who testified that R.Kelly sexually abused and beat her when she was underage.
Those who work with sexual assault survivors say the hurdles facing Black women and girls are raised even higher by a society that hypersexualizes them from a young age.