Another woman has come forward alleging that she had a sexual relationship with R. Kelly when she was a minor, and that she is among several women who have lived under his control in a cult-like dynamic.
The latest accuser, Jerhonda Pace, now 24, told Buzzfeed that she met the R&B star when she attended his child pornography trial in 2008, when she was 15 years old. A year later, Kelly allegedly invited the 16-year-old to come stay at a home he owns in the Chicago suburbs.
As previous accusers have claimed, Pace told Buzzfeed that Kelly was extremely controlling and made the women living in the home adhere to strict rules. She said she was required to wear baggy clothes and had to ask permission to eat or use the bathroom.
Pace said that after Kelly caught her texting a friend — apparently a violation of the rules — he slapped her and choked her and spit on her.
Soon after, Pace reportedly left the home and reached a settlement with Kelly through Chicago attorney Susan E. Loggans. Pace, who is now married, told Buzzfeed she is coming forward now because she is concerned for the well-being of a woman she knows who may still be under Kelly’s control.
Kelly’s representatives have denied the allegations, as they did last month when Buzzfeed published an explosive report in which family members of girls reportedly living with Kelly detailed years of alleged mind control and possible kidnapping.
“The allegations against Mr. Kelly are false, and are being made by individuals known to be dishonest. It is clear these continuing stories are the result of the effort of those with personal agendas who are working in concert to interfere with and damage his career. Mr. Kelly again denies any and all wrong doing and is taking appropriate legal action to protect himself from ongoing defamation.”
Feature photo: Associated Press