R. Kelly Hospitalized Following Alleged Overdose in Prison
R&B singer R. Kelly was urgently hospitalized last week after reportedly overdosing on medication supplied by prison staff at the Federal Correctional Institution in Butner, North Carolina. According to court documents filed on June 17, the overdose occurred while he was in solitary confinement, sparking serious concerns about his health and safety.
Allegations of Medication Overdose and Forced Removal from Hospital
Kelly’s attorney has accused prison officials of deliberately administering an excessive dose of his prescribed medications, which led to symptoms including dizziness, faintness, and black spots in his vision. After collapsing in his cell, he was transported via ambulance to Duke University Hospital for emergency treatment.
Despite hospital doctors recommending surgery to address dangerous blood clots in his legs and lungs, Kelly was forcibly removed from medical care by armed officers and returned to solitary confinement at Butner. His legal team insists this decision endangered his life.
Details of Medical Emergency
- Overdose occurred on the night of June 12 while in solitary confinement.
- Next morning, Kelly experienced severe disorientation and collapsed.
- Diagnosed with blood clots threatening his lungs; surgery was advised.
- Hospitalization cut short against medical advice; returned to prison prematurely.
Claims of a Murder Plot and Calls for Intervention
Adding to the turmoil, Kelly’s legal team revealed an alleged murder plot within the prison. An inmate named Mikeal Glenn Stine reportedly was approached by other prisoners to harm Kelly but instead warned him about the plan. This information was included in recent court filings as part of a motion seeking home detention for Kelly.
His attorney highlighted systemic issues, accusing the Bureau of Prisons of failing to protect Kelly and denying him vital medical care, potentially putting his life at risk. They have appealed for judicial intervention, seeking a temporary furlough so Kelly can be monitored safely at home.
Background: R. Kelly’s Convictions and Sentencing
Born Robert Sylvester Kelly, the singer is currently serving a 30-year federal sentence for racketeering and sex trafficking offenses. He was convicted in 2021 and 2022 following multiple trials in Chicago and New York City. His sentences for various charges, including child pornography and enticement, run concurrently with an additional consecutive term.
Government Response and Controversy
Federal prosecutors have dismissed Kelly’s claims, labeling them as "fanciful" and "theatrical." They criticized procedural errors in his legal motions and condemned any suggestion of early release, warning it would undermine justice for his victims and set dangerous precedents.
Key Points from Prosecutors’ Statement
- Called Kelly a "master manipulator."
- Warned that releasing Kelly could open doors to other convicted violent offenders seeking freedom.
- Rejected claims of medical neglect and conspiracy as unfounded.
Current Status and Ongoing Legal Battles
As of now, Kelly remains incarcerated in North Carolina. His team continues to fight for his safety and medical care amid complex legal and health challenges. The controversy surrounding his treatment in prison shines a spotlight on broader issues about inmate rights and prison healthcare.
The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected as legal proceedings unfold.
