The media will not be able to access transcripts of secret hearings in the R. Kelly case until after the trial ends, a Cook County judge ruled Friday.
In a show of unity among competitors, local news agencies — including the Chicago Tribune, Sun-Times, Associated Press and radio station WBEZ — filed a legal challenge last month to four closed-door proceedings and other sealed documents.
Cook County Judge Vincent Gaughan ruled the secrecy was necessary to give the singer a fair trial. He also indicated that he closed the proceedings to protect the alleged minor victim.
The 41-year-old singer, whose real name is Robert Kelly, faces charges that he made a videotape between 1998 and 2001 that shows him engaging in sex with the victim, who is now 23. He has pleaded not guilty and the woman denies she’s the female depicted in the videotape.
“Time and again, it has been made clear that closure is necessary to protect the minor victim and the defendant’s right to a fair trial by ensuring the jury will not be exposed to inadmissible or highly prejudicial evidence,” Gaughan said in the written ruling.
The judge said he would release the transcripts and other sealed court documents at trial’s end. By that time, however, the issue could be moot because secret witnesses might have testified.
Gaughan also is expected to give reporters a copy of the blank questionnaire form that prospective jurors filled out. It has been under seal since its creation.
Attorney Damon Dunn, who represents the news agencies, said his clients were disappointed not to receive the transcripts sooner.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” he said.
Opening statements in his trial are set to begin Tuesday.
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sstclair@tribune.com
