R Kelly: Grand jury 'assembled in Illinois' after new sexual assault claims against singer

Singer's lawyer says he has not been notified of potential investigation

A grand jury has reportedly been assembled in Illinois following new allegations against R Kelly.

Two sources close to the case told CNN the grand jury has been convened in Cook County in connection with accusations made against the singer.

This comes just a few days after attorney Michael Avenatti claimed that his office had surrendered a tape showing Kelly sexually assaulting an underage girl to the authorities.

Kelly’s lawyer Steve Greenberg told The Independent that no one from law enforcement has contacted him or Kelly regarding a potential investigation.

“Certainly they are aware that I am representing him so if there were any reason to speak to him or I, they would have reached out to me,” Mr Greenberg said.

He added: “I can tell you that I am unaware of any proceedings, and do not anticipate any charges.”

The Independent has contacted the Cook County State’s Attorney for more information.

Kelly has faced accusations of sexual abuse for two decades and has never been convicted.

Allegations against the 52-year-old singer have received renewed attention following the release of the six-part Lifetime documentary Surviving R Kelly.

Last month, Kelly’s lawyer denied all claims against the singer, telling AP: “The allegations aren’t true because he never knowingly had sex with an underage woman, he never forced anyone to do anything, he never held anyone captive, he never abused anyone.”