R. Kelly enters not guilty plea in Chicago
ByJun 25, 2002 10:00 PM
R&B star R. Kelly, who has been indicted for allegedly videotaping himself having sex with a 14-year-old girl, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday (6/26) to 21 counts of child pornography.
R&B star R. Kelly, who has been indicted for allegedly videotaping himself having sex with a 14-year-old girl, pleaded not guilty on Wednesday (6/26) to 21 counts of child pornography.
According to Chicago press reports, about 100 fans gathered outside the Chicago courthouse, cheering and holding signs expressing support for the singer. According to the Sun-Times, many wore T-shirts that said, “R. Kelly, We Love You!” and “We are Praying for You!”
Kelly, who has denied that he is the man on the videotape, didn’t issue a statement or answer reporters’ questions following his arraignment. The judge ordered him to return to court on Aug. 7.
The singer was indicted on child pornography charges and arrested on June 5. If convicted, Kelly could face 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
Earlier this week, the embattled R&B star delivered the track “Heaven, I Need a Hug” to Chicago radio station WGCI-FM. Among the song’s lyrics: “I’ve given 13 years of my life to this industry. Hit song or not, I’ve given all of me. You smile in my face and tell me you love me. But then before you know the truth you’re so quick to judge me.”