R. Kelly removed from suicide watch in Brooklyn jail

Convicted sexual predator and recording artist R. Kelly was removed Tuesday from suicide watch in a Brooklyn, N.Y., jail while he awaits transfer. 

Kelly was placed on suicide watch after being sentenced Wednesday to 30 years in prison by a Brooklyn judge for sexual misconduct. 

However, Kelly sued the prison, arguing he was being improperly subjected to "harsh conditions," in violation of his rights. 

He was released from suicide watch prior to any ruling on the lawsuit.

"Following a clinical assessment, Plaintiff Robert Sylvester Kelly, also known as ‘R. Kelly,’ was removed from suicide watch as of this morning, July 5, 2022," prosecutors said. 

Kelly's lawyer, Jennifer Bonjean, said her client was placed on the watch for punitive reasons in violation of his Eighth Amendment rights."

She also confirmed that the lawsuit would continue despite the status change. 

While on suicide watch, inmates are monitored 24/7 in a special room without any comfort items. They are put in a special uniform that prevents then from harming themselves. Inmates are also deprived of shower and shave privileges, as well as any eating utensils. 

Kelly still faces additional child pornography and sexual abuse charges in Illinois. He will be transferred in the coming weeks to Cook County to stand trial.