R. Kelly Tests Positive For COVID-19 & Granted An Appeal Extension

R. Kelly has gotten lucky, although under pretty grim circumstances. The 55-year old artist has recently contracted COVID-19. However, that leads him to get an important extension that could help his case.

Rolling Stone reports that while being incarcerated in the Brooklyn Federal Jail, R Kelly has tested positive for COVID-19. This led to a decision that is beneficial to his case by U.S. District Judge Ann M. Donnelly.

The judge gave R Kelly two additional weeks to file an appeal which has given his team substantial amount of time. According to the report, his legal team has until January 17th in order to prepare an appeal.

R Kelly has been found guilty in his trial for eight counts of child sex trafficking and one count of federal racketeering. Kelly’s lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, argued that since R Kelly has contracted COVID-19, he would not be able to completely participate in crafting his appeal.

It is vitally important that Mr. Kelly meaningfully participates in his post-trial defence. The [jail] has not indicated when visits will resume which is less than ideal, but undersigned counsel is confident that she can accomplish necessary discussions with Mr. Kelly via upcoming scheduled Zoom visits.

R Kelly has already lost the trial. However, his post-trial defense is word rests between him and a lengthy prison sentence.

What’s your take on this story? Sound off in the comments!