R. Kelly Pleads Not Guilty To Federal Charges, Denied Bail

Controversial R&B star R. Kelly pleaded not guilty to charges of sexually abusing women and girls as well as racketeering, kidnapping and forced labor. The singer was denied bail on Friday in a U.S. Federal court in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Prosecutors asked Magistrate Judge Steven Tiscione to deny bail, claiming Kelly poses a flight risk and a danger to public safety.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Geddes pointed out that Kelly had a history of paying off and intimidating witnesses in past cases.

“There’s a serious risk he’ll attempt to obstruct justice,” Geddes said.

Prosecutors had charged Kelly with one count of racketeering and four counts of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting people across state lines for the purpose of prostitution.

According to CNN, the indictment details alleged incidents in four states: Illinois, Connecticut, California and New York. Five Jane Does are referenced throughout the document, including three minors.

Kelly’s defense attorneys requested his release so he could better fight charges they have dismissed as “groupie remorse.”

Kelly, whose full name is Robert Kelly, is accused of using his fame to recruit young women and girls into illegal sexual activity.

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