“Empire” actor Jussie Smollett appeared in court Tuesday morning for an emergency hearing where prosecutors dropped all charged against him.
The Chicago Tribune reports that Smollett, who has been accused of lying to police about a purported hate crime as part of an alleged hoax, learned in court Tuesday morning that prosecutors are dropping the charges against him. Smollett had been charged with multiple counts of disorderly conduct for allegedly falsifying a police report about a January 29 incident in which he claimed two men attacked him, shouted slurs at him and tied a rope around his neck.
CNN obtained a statement from the Cook County State’s Attorney addressing the stunning reversal.
“After reviewing all of the facts and circumstances of the case, including Mr. Smollett’s volunteer service in the community and agreement to forfeit his bond to the City of Chicago, we believe this outcome is a just disposition and appropriate resolution to this case.”
Jussie and many others were hurt by these unfair and unwarranted actions. This entire situation is a reminder that there should never be an attempt to prove a case in the court of public opinion. That is wrong. It is a reminder that a victim, in this case Jussie, deserves dignity and respect. Dismissal of charges against the victim in this case was the only just result.
Jussie is relieved to have this situation behind him and is very much looking forward to getting back to focusing on his family, friends and career.”
CrimeOnline will provide further updates when more information is available.
[Feature image: AP Photo/Matt Marton]
