News that R&B starR. Kellyhas beenindicted on 10 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abusehas spread quickly through the ranks at Lifetime Network, which created and aired the shocking six-part docu-seriesSurviving R. Kellyin January.
“We are proud that Lifetime was able to provide a platform for survivors to be heard,” the network and producers of the documentary told PEOPLE Friday in a statement.
Surviving R. Kellyfeatured wide-ranging interviews with R. Kelly’sfamily members, former friends and colleagues, but most notably, women who claim that for decades the hit-making singer and producer used his power and influence to sexually andphysically abusewomen andyoung girls.
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R. Kelly.Gilbert Carrasquillo/FilmMagic
Now less than two months later, Foxx has announced that the R&B star, 52, has been charged with the sexual abuse of four women, three of whom are said to have been under the age of 17 at the time of the acts. CNN reports that evidence in the new case includes a VHS tape that allegedly shows Kelly and one of the victims who can be heard referring to her “14-year-old” genitalia. (PEOPLE has not viewed the tape, and can not independently verify its contents.)
RELATED VIDEO: Lawyer for R. Kelly Denies All Sexual Abuse Allegations Against the R&B Singer
Both Kelly’s attorney, Steven Greenberg, and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately reply to PEOPLE’s request for comment. Kelly, however, hasrepeatedly denied all accusations of sexual abuseor misconduct made against him.
According to Foxx, Kelly is expected to arrive in court on Saturday. In 2008, a Cook County jury found Kellynot guiltyon 14 counts of child pornography charges.
Shayan Asgharnia
If you suspect domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.
source: people.com
