FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The trial of singer-rapper Sean Kingston and his mother, Janice Turner, got underway on Monday with jury selection and opening statements. Both were seen walking out of the federal courthouse in downtown Lauderdale on Monday.
The two face multiple federal wire fraud charges. Prosecutors allege they claimed to send bank wire transfers as payment with phony paperwork to defraud businesses and individuals out of luxury items.
“I love my fans, I love my fans,” Kingston, whose real name is Kisean Anderson, said as he left the courthouse. “I love you guys.”
Government prosecutors asked jurors for a guilty verdict Monday, saying they have evidence to prove Kingston and his mother sent fake wire transfer receipts to vendors.
Kingston’s Southwest Ranches rental home was raided in May 2024, with authorities seizing luxury cars, jewelry, and high-priced tech items.
The items were allegedly obtained by name-dropping other celebrities and then not paying for the products or services.
On Monday, 45 jurors entered the federal courthouse as the jury selection process between the defense and federal prosecutors began.
Both sides are hopeful a seated jury will help determine the fate of the 35-year-old “Beautiful Girls” singer and his 62-year-old mother, accused of fraud and grand theft.
In addition to the federal charges, the two also face state charges that include organized fraud and grand theft.
Prosecutors are expected to call four victims to the stand on Tuesday.