Federal prosecutors submitted a motion on Thursday asking for a 25 year prison sentence for R. Kelly. Kelly, whose sentencing has been scheduled for June 29, was found guilty of many years of sexual abuse last September. The court convicted him of all nine sex trafficking charges brought against him.
They also recommended a fine of $50,000-250,000 for Kelly.
“In light of the seriousness of the offenses, the need for specific deterrence and the need to protect the public from further crimes of the defendant…the government respectfully submits that a sentence in excess of 25 years is warranted,” the US Attorney’s Office submitted in the motion.
The US Attorney’s Office also argued that Kelly showed no remorse for his crimes. They stated that the belief of his musical talent fueled the artist’s horrific actions.
The filing also goes into the “callous disregard” R. Kelly showed his victims during his long years of abuse, with prosecutors warning that he won’t resist “from further sexually abusing and exploiting children and others.”
Also, federal prosecutors have stated that with the recommended sentence, Kelly would be in his 70s by the time he is released.
R. Kelly’s criminal history
During the trial, the feds called 45 witnesses to describe the crimes R. Kelly inflicted upon his victims. They also said the “Ignition” artist has shown “no remorse” for any of his actions. R. Kelly faces criminal charges in other states.
The court convicted Kelly of violating eight counts of the Mann Act, which prohibits sex trafficking across state lines.
In Minnesota, state prosecutors charged him with engaging in prostitution with a minor. While in Illinois, the prosecutors brought federal charges against him for child pornography and obstruction.
Jennifer Bonjean, Kelly’s lawyer, argued that his prison sentence should be 14 years or fewer. She plans to explain why his “characteristics” justify the sentence in a motion next Monday.
Written by Olan Bryant
