Illinois Supreme Court Overturns Jussie Smollett’s Conviction in Staged Hate Crime Case
Judge Rules Special Prosecutor’s Involvement in the Case was Improper
The Illinois Supreme Court has overturned Jussie Smollett’s conviction on Thursday, ruling that a special prosecutor’s involvement in the case was improper. Smollett had been found guilty in 2021 of staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself in Chicago and lying to police.
Original Charges Dropped in 2019
The court decided that Cook County prosecutors were within their rights when they initially dropped charges against Smollett in 2019 in exchange for his $10,000 bond and community service. Justice Elizabeth Rochford, writing for the unanimous 5-0 decision, said the state must honor agreements it makes, even in controversial cases.
Special Prosecutor’s Disagreement
The special prosecutor, Dan Webb, expressed disagreement with the ruling but clarified it had no bearing on Smollett’s innocence.
The Case Against Smollett
Smollett, a Black and gay actor known for his role on the Chicago-based TV drama Empire, claimed in 2019 that two men attacked him, used slurs, and put a noose around his neck. The allegations sparked national outrage and a police investigation. Prosecutors later argued Smollett orchestrated the attack, paying two men $3,500 to stage the scene, allegedly upset over how the studio responded to hate mail he received.
Testimony Revealed
Testimony revealed Smollett instructed the men to yell slurs and shout “MAGA country,” referencing Donald Trump’s campaign slogan. Smollett maintained his innocence, saying he was the victim of a hate crime.
Consequences of the Conviction
The case reignited in 2020 when a special prosecutor took over, leading to a grand jury reinstating charges. Smollett was convicted on five counts of disorderly conduct and sentenced to 150 days in jail, serving six before being released pending appeal. He was also ordered to pay $130,000 in restitution for police overtime tied to the investigation.
Possibility of Civil Suit
Webb noted that Chicago officials could still pursue a civil lawsuit to recover the restitution.
Smollett’s Career
Smollett, who gained fame as a child actor in The Mighty Ducks, credited Empire for reviving his career. This year, he starred in the film The Lost Holliday alongside Vivica A. Fox.
Justices’ Non-Participation
Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis and Justice Joy Cunningham did not participate in the ruling.
Conclusion
The Illinois Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Jussie Smollett’s conviction brings an end to the controversial case, with the special prosecutor disagreeing with the ruling. The court’s decision emphasizes the importance of honoring agreements in cases, even those that are controversial.
FAQs
* What was Jussie Smollett accused of?
+ Staging a racist and homophobic attack against himself in Chicago and lying to police.
* What was the original outcome of the case?
+ Cook County prosecutors dropped charges against Smollett in 2019 in exchange for his $10,000 bond and community service.
* What was the special prosecutor’s involvement in the case?
+ A special prosecutor took over the case in 2020, leading to a grand jury reinstating charges against Smollett.
* What was Smollett’s sentence?
+ Smollett was convicted on five counts of disorderly conduct and sentenced to 150 days in jail, serving six before being released pending appeal. He was also ordered to pay $130,000 in restitution for police overtime tied to the investigation.
