Singer R. Kelly in court
2002-09-22 16:58
Chicago - Grammy-winning singer R. Kelly appeared in court on Friday as prosecutors pressed ahead with child pornography charges against him.
Lawyers in the case said more evidence needed to be exchanged by the two sides before trial, and Cook County Circuit Court Judge Vincent Gaughan scheduled another hearing for November 1.
Kelly (35) dressed in a crisp grey suit and blue tie, stood without saying a word during the brief appearance.
The attorneys said a trial may not take place until next year for Kelly, who faces 21 counts of videotaping, producing or soliciting for child pornography. The charges stemmed from a 26-minute videotape that allegedly depicted the rhythm and blues star engaging in numerous sex acts with a girl that police say was 14 years old at the time.
Kelly, whose given name is Robert, has pleaded innocent and denied the man on the tape is him. His lawyers have said the girl in any case was of age.
A conviction carries a possible 15-year prison term. Kelly remains free on bond.
Kelly's brother, Cary Kelly (25), an aspiring rap singer, greeted his brother outside the courthouse along with a half dozen supporters shouting, "hang in there Robert".
Cary Kelly said false rumours have spread that he, not his famous older brother, is the man on the tape. Bootleg copies of the tape became hot sellers on street corners and a copy was sent anonymously to the Chicago Sun-Times newspaper and was turned over to police.