Judge ices media in R. Kelly porn case

CHICAGO, April 12 (UPI) -- A circuit judge in Chicago is trying to keep the media out in the cold by closing hearings and issuing gag orders in rapper R. Kelly's pornography case.

Cook County Circuit Judge Vincent Gaughan has placed a gag order on all lawyers in the performer's case to prevent media leaks regarding closed sessions in the upcoming trial, the Chicago Tribune reported Saturday.

On Friday, Gaughan also had several reporters and spectators removed from his courtroom so attorneys could discuss several sealed legal motions during a pre-trial hearing.

"This type of information can affect the potential jury pool," Gaughan said of the material to be discussed.

Jury selection in Kelly's child pornography case is expected to begin May 9 for the trial that has been delayed nearly six years, the Tribune said.

The 41-year-old singer is accused of having sex with an underage girl and videotaping the alleged sex acts.