R. Kelly handed huge sentence for sex trafficking and racketeering

New York, New York - R&B singer R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Wednesday, with an additional $100,000 fine.

R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, with an additional fine of $100,000.
R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison on charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, with an additional fine of $100,000.  © NUCCIO DINUZZO / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

Last September, Kelly (55) was convicted by a jury on nine charges — one count of racketeering, and eight counts of sex trafficking. He was facing life in prison.

Prosecutors argued that the star used his fame to "target girls, boys, and young women for his own sexual gratification," and recommended he serve more than 25 years behind bars.

"These victims were disposable to you," Judge Anna Donnelly told Kelly. "You left in your wake a trail of broken lives. You taught them that love is enslavement and violence and humiliation."

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Several accusers gave statements addressed to the disgraced singer following the sentencing.

"With every addition of a new victim, you grew in wickedness," said Angela, a woman who claimed the singer sexually assaulted her when she was a teenager.

A victim referred to as Jane Doe 2 said, "Now it's your turn to have your freedom taken from you."

While the decision won't heal the wounds of the brave victims, hopefully they can find some solace in his sentencing.

Cover photo: NUCCIO DINUZZO / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP

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