Jussie Smollett Case To Be Reviewed By Special Prosecutor

Jussie Smollett is out of Empire, but the Hollywood actor might not be out of the woods regarding his alleged fake hate crime, which took place in February.

As per a Chicago judge on Friday (June 21), a special prosecutor has been appointed Smollett's case to review the way prosecutors handled it and its dismissal. "If reasonable grounds exist to further prosecute Smollett, in the interest of justice the special prosecutor may take such action," the judge said. Word of the new order is surprising since the Office of State's Attorney Kim Foxx dropped all charges against Jussie after the grand jury indicted the actor on 16 felony counts for lying to authorities. Foxx has responded to the new order in a statement, saying, "I respectfully disagree with the court's conclusion that, in the absence of any conflict, the appointment of a special prosecutor is required. As always, I remain committed to transparency, justice, and the public safety of the communities we serve."

Friday's judge said "unprecedented irregularities identified in this case" have warranted the appointment of a special prosecutor. "There was no master on the bridge to guide the ship as it floundered through unchartered waters. And it ultimately lost its bearings," the judge said.

After the charges were dropped, for which Smollett told authorities that two individuals assaulted him during a late-night run to Subway in February, the actor issued a statement. "First of all I want to thank my family, my friends, the incredible people of Chicago and all over the country and the world who have prayed for me, who have supported me and who have showed me so much love. No one will ever know how much that has meant to me and I will be forever grateful," the 36-year-old said. "I want you to know that not for a moment was it in vain. I have been truthful and consistent on every level since day one. I would not be my mother’s son if I was capable of one drop of what I’ve been accused of."

Photo: Getty Images


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