Amid the coronavirus outbreak, singer R. Kelly was prevented from meeting with his legal team.
Reports from TMZ indicated that the 53-year-old, who is currently detained at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Chicago on new federal charges in New York, was scheduled to have a meeting with his lawyers. However, corrections personnel allegedly turned his lawyers away, citing concerns about the spread of the virus.
The lawyers had intended to check on Kelly’s well-being and discuss his legal strategy but were informed by the Bureau of Prisons in Illinois that visits were suspended for the next 30 days.
A representative for the Bureau of Prisons explained to TMZ that they are prioritizing the avoidance of unnecessary exposure of inmates and others to the virus. They acknowledged the importance of allowing inmates access to lawyers and stated that they would attempt to accommodate this need.
R. Kelly faces a new indictment, including charges of coercion and enticement, coercion of a minor, and transportation of a minor across state lines.
Alleged victims, identified as Jane Doe #5 and Jane Doe #6, claimed that Kelly had failed to inform them of his herpes during their relationships. Jane Doe #6 alleged that she contracted the virus due to unprotected sex with him.
Moreover, the singer is also facing new racketeering charges, including allegations of using force, threats of force, physical restraint, and threats of physical restraint.
R. Kelly is currently facing 13 charges in Illinois and has pending cases in Illinois state and Minnesota. He also faces further charges in Brooklyn, New York, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and child pornography.