R. Kelly was in New York City federal courts where he pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering, kidnapping, forced labor and sexual exploitation of a child.
R.Kelly is being accused of sexually abusing five women and three of them were minors at time the abuse took place.
“The judge also denied R. Kelly’s request to be released on bail. Attorneys for the prosecution argued that Kelly was a flight risk and a serious danger of obstruction of justice,” via the blast.
On Wednesday, Kelly attorney Douglas Anton refers to the victims as disgruntled groupies.
“these groupies sought out Robert’s attention, even fought each other for it, voluntarily contacted him, came to his shows, pined to be with him,” said Anton.
“evidence will show that the Robert Kelly tours and shows would accommodate both male and female fans with access to the singer, picture taking, meet and greets, fan events, backstage passes and the like.”
Anton went on and compare Kelly action to charity work.
“The indictment even alleges, just like some of my other touring musician clients do with the Make-A-Wish and other foundations, that staff would pay for travel or accommodations for his fans when they could not themselves afford to attend a performance. This is ‘touring’ rock and roll, not a criminal enterprise.”
R. Kelly has another hearing for the Chicago federal case on September 4.
Flip to the next page to see the update on his case.