Introduction to the Case
A judge has denied R. Kelly’s emergency request to be released from prison and serve his sentence at home. The request was made due to claims that prison officials had attempted to have him murdered by another inmate. Kelly is currently serving a 30-year sentence for charges related to the sexual exploitation of children.
Background of the Request
Robert Kelly submitted an emergency application last week, citing concerns for his safety and the alleged attempts on his life by prison officers. He claimed that there was evidence to suggest that officials had authorized an inmate to kill him in a federal prison in North Carolina. Kelly’s lawyer, Beau Brindley, stated that an inmate had come forward, claiming that officials had promised him freedom in exchange for Kelly’s murder.
The Judge’s Decision
Judge Martha Pacold rejected Kelly’s emergency application, stating that the court "is not responsible for this matter." Pacold wrote that Kelly had not shown any legal basis for the court’s jurisdiction, and therefore, his emergency application was denied. A hearing that was scheduled for Friday was also canceled.
Response to the Rejection
In response to the rejection, Kelly’s lawyer announced that he plans to file an application to vacate Kelly’s convictions in Chicago based on newly discovered evidence and to request an immediate release. Brindley stated that he was not surprised by the decision, but had to act quickly due to the threat to Kelly’s life. Brindley claimed that Kelly was "punished" for submitting the emergency application and was placed in solitary confinement, where he was given a large amount of medication that could have killed him.
Kelly’s Health Concerns
Brindley explained that Kelly overdosed on the medication and was taken to the hospital, where he was found to have blood clots in his legs and lungs. Despite being scheduled for surgery, officials allegedly removed Kelly from the hospital against his will and against medical advice. Brindley stated that Kelly’s life is still in danger due to the blood clots in his lungs, and that the surgical intervention recommended by doctors is being refused.
Current Situation
Brindley emphasized that the threat to Kelly’s life is ongoing and more serious than ever. He remains in prison with life-threatening blood clots, and the surgical intervention needed to save his life is being denied. The situation highlights the concerns for Kelly’s safety and well-being while in prison, and the need for immediate attention to his medical condition.
