These Are the Tales of the Courageous Girls Who Testified Towards R. Kelly In His Intercourse Trafficking Trial

“I used to be in shock,” the 24 yr outdated stated whereas discussing her an infection in court docket. “I actually simply needed him to perhaps give me solutions—or simply acknowledge that he did it.”

The testimony of the 5 girls led to Kelly’s conviction on Sept. 27, the place he was discovered responsible of 9 felony costs that included racketeering, bribery, coercion and intercourse trafficking. His lawyer Steve Greenberg stated they’re “terribly upset” by the decision and imagine it was “not supported by the proof and as a substitute is a mirrored image of the hysteria whipped up by a few TV exhibits.”

However in keeping with Erinn Robinson, press secretary of the anti-sexual violence group RAINN, the responsible verdict “sends a loud message to survivors of sexual violence.” Robinson stated in an announcement obtained by E! Information, “We’re happy that R. Kelly might be delivered to justice for a number of the irrevocable hurt he has prompted. Many survivors of Kelly’s abuse—ladies and men of coloration, who have been lengthy ignored and pushed apart—got here ahead and spoke out powerfully all through the trial.” 

The group acknowledged that the decision was made potential “by their braveness and persistence in being heard.” The assertion continued, “We thank them for his or her resilience throughout a troublesome and really public course of. We hope that right now’s verdict empowers survivors in all places to really feel that they don’t seem to be alone.”