FILE - In this Thursday, June 6, 2019, file photo, musician R. Kelly leaves the Leighton Criminal Court building, in Chicago. Kelly is due in a New York City court, Friday, Aug. 2, 2019, for an arraignment on charges he sexually abused women and girls. (AP Photo/Amr Alfiky, File)
Republished August 15, 2019 - 1:05 PM
Original Publication Date August 15, 2019 - 10:16 AM
CHICAGO - An Illinois judge overseeing singer R. Kelly's sexual-abuse case says he'll proceed toward a trial despite three new cases being brought against Kelly.
Cook County Judge Lawrence Flood noted Thursday at a status hearing that a federal case in Chicago, one in New York and a Minnesota case have all been brought since July. Kelly has denied any wrongdoing.
Flood asked attorneys if there's agreement about which of the four cases should proceed first. When a prosecutor said that hadn't been decided, Flood said he'd proceed for now as if no other cases existed.
The multiple cases complicate moving Kelly from a downtown Chicago jail to different hearings. A defence lawyer said Kelly didn't appear Thursday because of transportation issues.
Flood said he wanted Kelly at his next status hearing, on Sept. 17.
News from © The Associated Press, 2019