Musician R. Kelly, center, arrives at the Leighton Criminal Court building for arraignment on new sex-related felonies on June 6, 2019, in Chicago.The trial has been long and, at times, monotonous since its start date in mid-August. The prosecution’s witness list was thorough, with 45 people taking the stand — including eight former employees of Kelly’s and 11 accusers, six of whom were underage when the singer allegedly abused them.
The R&B singer went on trial in 2008 in Chicago over similar accusations of child sexual abuse but was acquitted on all charges. The New York trial is only the first of his upcoming court battles. Kelly is also facing several other sexual abuse charges in Chicago that are expected to go to trial sometime next year.
Due to COVID-19 precautions, jurors sit in the courtroom off-screen, which makes it impossible for reporters to see how they react to certain evidence and witness testimony. Everyone in the actual courtroom is also required to wear face masks if they’re not speaking during the proceedings. This includes Kelly himself, which makes it nearly impossible to read his reaction to testimony.
During the trial, the defense team sometimes seemed like they were playing catch-up, despite having nearly two years to prepare. Two of Kelly’s main attorneys did step away from the case a few months before the trial began. Defense attorney Deveraux Cannick, who stepped in shortly before the trial started, questioned many of the prosecution’s witnesses in a style seen often in racketeering or RICO cases: He repeatedly tried to confuse the witness and catch them in lies.
Jury deliberations are likely to begin Friday afternoon after Donnelly finishes giving instructions on the charges. A verdict could come down any time after that.
Entertainment Entertainment Latest News, Entertainment Entertainment Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Source: Mirror Celeb - 🏆 476. / 51 Read more »