Jelani Maraj, the older brother of Nicki Minaj, appeared in a New York court December 9 for a hearing on the alleged rape of a pre-teen.
Maraj entered the Nassau County courthouse for a preliminary hearing, with the judge and lawyers as well. According to records, they were there to establish a trial schedule.
The 37-year-old received support from his mother Carol Maraj in court, according to the New York Daily News. Lawyer Andrea Zellan will represent Maraj.
Police alleged Maraj raped a 12-year old over the course of 3 months in Long Island, New York. The felony rape charges carry a penalty of 9 to 25 years.