Barry Hankerson Says His Sister Was Aware Of Aaliyah’s Sexual Abuse In Interview With Dr. Oz

As more grim details about R. Kelly’s illicit relationship with Aaliyah come to the surface, her uncle Barry Hankerson has revealed that the late singer’s mother knew more about the abuse she endured at the hands of Kelly.

Hankerson, the CEO of Blackground Records who introduced his niece to Kelly when she was just 12-years-old, has long been scrutinized for not doing more to protect the young singer. However, he claims that he “didn’t have a clue” about the sexual abuse but alleges that his sister, Diane Haughton, was fully aware.

“I think my sister knew a lot more than what we thought she knew,” the 74-year-old told Dr. Oz.

This shocking revelation was disclosed as Kelly is on trial for multiple sex crimes against teen girls and even a teenaged boy. His inappropriate relationship with Aaliyah had surfaced several times within the ongoing case, including details about them marrying when she was 15-years-old, and he was 27. Her parents had the marriage annulled months later. Aaliyah never spoke about her ordeal.

Aaliyah’s mother, who has avoided the spotlight for years since her passing, has not publicly responded to her brother’s claims.