Singer R. Kelly has been sentenced to 20 years in prison in Chicago’s federal sex crimes case.
Kelly will have to serve 19 years of the sentence, with his current sentence in a New York case of 30 years. He also will serve one additional year behind bars.
Kelly was given the sentence on his convictions of child pornography and enticement in Chicago.
In September, he was found guilty on three counts of producing child pornography and three counts of enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity.
Prosecutors had asked for Kelly to serve 25 more years along with his New York sentence. They described him as a sexual predator who used his celebrity status and money to abuse individuals. They added that he hasn’t displayed any remorse.
Kelly’s attorney had asked for a 10-year sentence, citing Kelly’s own abuse as a child should lead to leniency.
In court, victims provided impact statements, calling Kelly abusive, dominating, and a child predator. They also discussed shame and how Kelly’s actions still impact them today.
