Stock/fhogueA motion to release R. Kelly on bond was denied Wednesday in New York City, and his trial for racketeering and other charges in New York was set for May 18, 2020.
Judge Ann Donnelly rejected attorney’s request for home detention for the “I Believe I Can Fly” singer, saying setting him free on bail “would do nothing to deter him” or those he works with, from obstruction, tampering with and intimidating witnesses.
His defense team argued that the government has provided no evidence of obstruction. Kelly’s attorneys also claim he’s in financial trouble, and has access to “little, if any money coming in” from royalties.
Donnelly contradicted that claim, noting that a $788,000 check was deposited into Kelly’s friend’s bank account in April – and another $98,000 check was deposited in June.
At the hearing, the U.S. Attorney’s office told the court the government is “continuing to investigate” and “there may be additional charges.”
Kelly has been held on federal sex crime charges in a Chicago area jail since being arrested in July.
The three-time Grammy-winner faces a combined 18 counts in federal indictments in Chicago and New York City, including charges of child pornography, enticing a minor into illegal sexual activity and conspiracy to obstruct justice by attempting to pay off and intimidate witnesses.
A trial in the federal case in Chicago is scheduled to begin April 27, 2020. Kelly is also facing abuse-related charges in Cook County, Illinois and Hennepin County, Minnesota.
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