Posted May 9, 2008

As the R. Kelly sex tape trial finally launches, new allegations have surfaced involving a woman who claims to have had a threesome with the R&B singer and the alleged video victim.

In a closed-door hearing last month a judge was told that an aide to R. Kelly paid off the woman to get her to return an incriminating sex videotape featuring the music star.

The Atlanta woman has been described by a source as having been in love with the singer, according to the Chicago Sun Times. The amount Kelly's aide allegedly paid the woman is unclear.

Born Robert Kelly, the 41-year-old singer faces criminal charges related to a separate videotape that allegedly shows Kelly having sex with a girl estimated to be 13 or 14. He has pleaded not guilty to child pornography and faces up to 15 years if convicted. Jury selection is set to begin today.

The woman, whose identity had remained secret, received immunity from state and federal prosecution in exchange for her testimony, sources said. Without immunity she could have faced charges of transporting child pornography across state lines.