Good afternoon, Chicago.
R. Kelly’s racketeering and sex trafficking convictions, along with a 30-year prison sentence, were upheld today by a federal appeals court that concluded the singer exploited his fame for over a quarter century to sexually abuse girls and young women.
The Grammy-winning, multiplatinum-selling R&B songwriter was convicted in 2021 in Brooklyn federal court of multiple charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking.
Here’s what else is happening today. And remember, for the latest breaking news in Chicago, visit chicagotribune.com/latest-headlines and sign up to get our alerts on all your devices.
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‘People really stood their ground,’ juror says of split Michael Madigan verdict
A federal jury rendered a split decision in the wide-ranging indictment against former House Speaker Michael Madigan, deadlocking on six counts including the marquee racketeering charge; acquitting him on seven counts; and convicting him of 10 counts including conspiracy, bribery and wire fraud. Read more here.
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Chicago History Museum workers launch union drive
In a public letter signed by more than two dozen workers at the museum, employees said they were motivated by a desire for “livable and competitive wages and raises,” clarity around grievance and disciplinary procedures and a greater voice in workplace decisions. Read more here.
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Chicago Bears Q&A: Will Trey Smith make it to free agency? Are Micah Parsons or Khalil Mack possible options?
After the Kansas City Chiefs were overrun in the Super Bowl, will they let guard Trey Smith become a free agent? Brad Biggs answers your Chicago Bears questions weekly. Read more here.
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With historic gift, Art Institute may have the most French art outside France
The gift makes the Art Institute one of the leading exhibitors of French art outside France, if not the leading exhibitor, based on the breadth and depth of its holdings. Read more here.
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President Donald Trump says he and Russian leader Vladimir Putin have agreed to begin ‘negotiations’ on ending Ukraine war
President Donald Trump said he and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed during a phone call today to begin “negotiations” on ending the Ukraine war and would “work together, very closely” toward winding down the conflict. Read more here.
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