ECPAT-USA Responds To The Sentencing of R. Kelly

After decades of investigations, indictments, and lawsuits, R. Kelly was sentenced this week to 30 years in prison for his crimes against children. ECPAT-USA expresses our respect and appreciation to all those who aided in bringing this case to the courts, especially the courageous survivors who testified about the abuse they experienced at the hands of the singer.

“The overwhelming message in this case is that we must believe survivors,” said Lori L. Cohen, ECPAT-USA’s CEO. “Kelly's targets ranged from women to girls to boys, but nearly all were Black and Brown, victims who historically been ignored or even blamed for the abuses inflicted against them. We hope the sentencing offers some small amount of justice to these individuals and serves as a turning point for a criminal justice system that, tragically, often still overlooks victims.”

With this week’s sentencing of both R. Kelly and Ghislaine Maxwell, it may be tempting to breathe a sigh of relief that two high-profile predators will no longer be able to harm our children.  However,  we must also remember that children in our communities today urgently need access to prevention education, support and, in the tragic event that they are exploited, the knowledge that their calls for help will be believed. ECPAT-USA will continue to fight to ensure that all children can grow up in a world free from exploitation and trafficking.