Ex-R. Kelly business manager testifies he didn’t believe early claims against singer

When claim after claim began to surface decades ago that rising R&B superstar R. Kelly had sexually abused underage girls, Derrel McDavid says he simply didn't buy it.

Rather, Kelly's then-business manager told a federal jury Wednesday that he became convinced, based on insider information, that it all amounted to a "grandiose" plot orchestrated by the singer's enemies to destroy him.

"It made me sick," McDavid said.

McDavid, who is now on trial alongside Kelly in Chicago's federal courthouse, took the stand as promised to testify in his own defense, a potentially risky move that will expose him to cross-examination by federal prosecutors. First, he must finish answering questions from his own attorney, who said he was "less than halfway done" after four hours Wednesday.

Read more:

Ex-R. Kelly business manager Derrel McDavid testifies he didn't believe early claims against singer

Kelly attorney Jennifer Bonjean has complained about McDavid's testimony, insisting it could prejudice her client. However, McDavid's testimony so far seems more helpful than harmful to Kelly.

chicago.suntimes.com • Share

More stories:

Illinois Appellate Court breathes new life into distracted driving lawsuit, opens door to possible refund of millions in fines

The Appellate Court ruled Circuit Judge Pamela McLean Myerson was wrong to toss the case in August 2021 by finding the plaintiffs lacked legal standing.

chicago.suntimes.com • Share