TSR Updatez: R. Kelly was hoping his plea to be released from the Chicago Metropolitan Correctional Center would be granted due to the risk of being exposed to the coronavirus. Unfortunately, things are not going his way, as it has reportedly been determined that he is not among the inmates impacted by the disease.
The judge said there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the jail where he is currently locked up. In fact, the judge cites various measures taken by the Bureau of Prisons to combat the spread of the virus–including suspending social visits and inmate facility transfers.
U.S. District Judge Ann Donnelly denied the motion, determining that he is still a flight risk.
“The defendant is currently in custody because of the risks that he will flee or attempt to obstruct, threaten or intimidate prospective witnesses,” Donnelly wrote. “The defendant has not explained how those risks have changed.”
Previously, R. Kelly argued that after having surgery while behind bars, he was at greater risk of catching the virus, which the judge said may not necessarily be true.
“He does not explain how his surgical history places him at higher risk of severe illness,” he said. “Moreover, officials in Chicago have advised the government that doctors have completed all treatment for the defendant’s recent operation.”
As we previously reported, Kells is awaiting trial on racketeering, sexual misconduct, and many other charges.
