The Illinois Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal of actor Jussie Smollett's disorderly conduct conviction related to a staged racist and homophobic attack against himself in 2019. Smollett, known for his role in the television drama 'Empire,' was convicted in 2021 by a Cook County jury for fabricating the attack and providing false information to Chicago police.
The case gained significant attention globally and led to an extensive investigation by Chicago police detectives. Following the initial charges being dropped by Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, a special prosecutor reinstated the case, leading to Smollett's conviction.
Despite Smollett's completion of community service and forfeiture of bond, the appellate court upheld the conviction, stating that there was no guarantee of immunity from further prosecution. Justice Freddrenna Lyle dissented, citing concerns about the fairness of refiling charges against Smollett.
Smollett's defense team has argued that he has faced discrimination within the justice system due to his race and sexual orientation. The actor, who is Black and gay, maintains his innocence and denies orchestrating a hoax.
During the trial, evidence revealed that Smollett had paid two individuals he knew from the 'Empire' cast to stage the attack. Despite this, Smollett insisted that the incident was genuine and not a setup.
As a result of the conviction, Smollett was sentenced to 150 days in jail, of which he served six before being released on appeal. He was also placed on probation for 30 months and ordered to pay over $130,000 in restitution.
The Illinois Supreme Court has not yet scheduled a date for the appeal hearing, and the case continues to draw public interest and scrutiny.
