R. Kelly’s Lawyers Slam Prosecutors For Latest Sexual Abuse Allegations

R. Kelly’s legal team is calling out prosecutors who are attempting to enter additional evidence ahead of the singer’s federal racketeering trial.

On Monday, Kelly’s attorneys released a statement addressing allegations submitted to a judge by prosecutors to further support their criminal case against the singer.

“This is nothing more than a veiled effort to pile on to further shape the public’s perception in this case ignoring that Mr. Kelly is presumed innocent until proven otherwise,” Tom Farinella, Kelly’s lawyer, said in a statement.

“The defense will vigorously oppose their requests. As the trial nears, we are looking forward to the truth prevailing.”

On Friday, prosecutors asked a judge to allow new evidence that would support charges of alleged crimes, including sexual abuse against female minors and a male minor, filed committed by the singer.

Federal prosecutors believe the new evidence further supports criminal charges against the singer and stated many of the acts committed are “inextricably intertwined with the evidence of the charged crimes.”

According to court documents, Kelly met a 17-year-old male in 2006 at McDonald’s. Although the teen was with his parents, Kelly gave him a solo invite to a party at his residence where the alleged sexual abuse took place.

Kelly and the minor reportedly carried on a sexual relationship under the pretense he would help the boy with his singing career. Over time, the boy allegedly introduced Kelly to another male minor, who the singer also wanted to sexually abuse.

Other evidence prosecutors are attempting to admit are recordings of threats the singer made against his victims and bribery.

Kelly has pleaded not guilty to criminal charges against him. Jury selection for the federal case is expected to begin on Aug. 9.