Grammy-winning artist R. Kelly was sentenced to an additional year in prison in a federal child pornography trial, and now faces a life sentence in a separate Chicago sex crimes case.
On Friday, the 52-year-old singer was sentenced to 13 months in prison for his conviction in the 2008 trial. The judge also ordered Kelly to register as a sex offender and pay a $35,000 fine.
The sentencing came after prosecutors sought a life sentence in a separate case involving sex crimes in Chicago. On Tuesday, Kelly was found guilty of multiple counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving four victims, three of whom were minors.
Kelly’s lawyers argued that the Chicago case should not be considered in the federal case, but the judge disagreed.
In a statement released after the sentencing, Kelly said he was “devastated” by the judge’s decision.
“I have devoted my entire life to my music and my fans and I am devastated by the judge’s decision today,” Kelly said.
The judge also heard from several of the victims’ family members before making his decision.
“I am begging you to please give him a second chance,” said one of the victim’s family members.
The judge ultimately decided to sentence Kelly to an additional year in prison, and he will now face a life sentence in the Chicago case.
The singer has maintained his innocence throughout the trial, and his attorney said they plan to appeal the judge’s decision.