Washington, D.C. - RAINN released the following statement after R. Kelly was sentenced to 30 years in prison. Kelly was charged with racketeering and sex trafficking.

“We are glad to see a sentence of 30 years, given the gravity of the abuse Kelly perpetrated. The sentencing in this case, where many of the survivors are women of color who fought tirelessly for R. Kelly to be brought to justice, sends an important message,” said Erinn Robinson, director of media relations for RAINN. “Every survivor is deserving of empathy and justice, and we must create space for survivors from marginalized communities to be heard and believed. We hope this case encourages survivors from these communities to share their stories. You are not alone.”

RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline provides free, confidential, 24/7 support at 800.656.HOPE (4673) and online.RAINN.org.

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About RAINN

RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, help organizations improve their sexual assault prevention and response programs, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, free, confidential help is available 24/7 by calling 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visiting online.rainn.org.