R. Kelly’s Sex Trafficking Trial Begins in Brooklyn
The long-anticipated sex trafficking trial for disgraced R&B superstar R. Kelly kicked off in Brooklyn on Monday as a federal judge questioned potential jurors for the case.
Judge Ann Donnelly quizzed prospective jurors on whether they could be impartial while evidence is presented for and against the former pop star, who is accused of sexually abusing women and girls for decades.
Kelly, 54, whose real name is Robert Sylvester Kelly, was arrested in Chicago in 2019 and has remained locked up in federal jail in the Windy City and later in Brooklyn since his bust.
His trial has been delayed a number of times as the former singer made changes to his legal team. Opening statements are scheduled to begin at the Downtown Brooklyn courthouse on Aug. 18.
