Lifetime Responds To R. Kelly Indictment
It’s probably safe to say that if Lifetime hadn’t aired its docuseries Surviving R. Kelly, the singer, who was indicted today, would not currently be facing 10 counts of aggravated sexual abuse. Now, Lifetime has responded to the news.
“We are proud that Lifetime was able to provide a platform for survivors to be heard,” said the network in a statement to ABC News. Investigations into the singer’s more recent activities began after the docuseries once again brought to the forefront the allegations of abuse that have followed the singer for decades.
Kimberly Foxx, Cook County State’s Attorney, announced the charges against R. Kelly, which involved four minor female victims.
There are four counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving a victim, initial H.W., between May of 1998 and May of 1999. She was under the age of 17.
There are two counts involving a victim, initials R.L., between September of 1998 and September of 2001. She was also under the age of 17. The third victim, L.C. was involved in an incident in February of 2003. Her age was not stated.
Finally, there are an additional three counts involving a fourth victim, J.P., between May of 2009 and January of 2010. She was also under the age of 17.
According to a press release from Foxx’s office, most of the incidents involved some kind of sexual contact between Kelly and the minors; one involved bodily fluids.
Aggravated criminal sexual abuse is a class 2 felony with a sentencing range of three to seven years per count.
The singer is set for a bond hearing on Saturday afternoon.
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