Embattled R&B star R. Kelly has reportedly sued the prison he was put in with claims he’s not suicidal after being handed down a 30-year prison sentence for racketeering and sex trafficking charges this week.
According to a report from TMZ, published on Friday (July 1), R. Kelly reportedly filed a lawsuit against The Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn (MDC Brooklyn) allegedly the facility is punishing him by placing him on suicide watch despite his denials that he has no intentions of hurting himself.
In his suit, the embattled singer alleges that MDC Brooklyn is subjecting him to “cruel and unusual punishment” under harsh conditions because he is a celebrity. Kels claims that his 8th amendment rights are being violated after he told MDC officials that he was not suicidal and had no thoughts of harming himself or others.
Kelly alleges the detention center placed him in a single cell without bed rails, no shower or shave, no toilet paper, being forced to eat meals with his hands, and receiving no contact from loved ones.
R. Kelly is reportedly suing for damages and emotional distress.
In response to Kelly’s allegations, the Bureau of Prisons told TMZ in a statement, “The BOP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all inmates in our population, our staff, and the public. Humane treatment of the men and women in our custody is a top priority.”
