Jussie Smollett’s attorneys seek new trial in actor’s hate crime hoax case – KIRO 7 News Seattle

Attorneys for actor Jussie Smollett on Wednesday filed an appeal of his conviction on charges he perpetrated a hate crime hoax in 2019, asking for a new trial and saying his 150-day jail sentence was “excessive,” according to WGN-TV.

>> Read more trending news

The court document also noted that Smollett’s prosecution violated his due process rights, in part by not enforcing what his attorneys describe as a binding non-prosecution agreement, CNN reported.

Smollett served five days of the sentence before he was released last year pending his appeal.

The “Empire” actor claimed he had been assaulted by two men as he went out for food around 2 a.m. on Jan. 29, 2019, in Chicago. According to Smollett, the men shouted homophobic and racist slurs, put a rope around his neck and poured a chemical substance on him.

After nearly a month-long investigation, law enforcement authorities said Smollett paid two brothers who were extras on the “Empire” sent $3,500 to stage the assault that he reported to the police. He was arrested and charged with lying to the police.

He was convicted in December 2021 and sentenced to 150 days in jail. Smollett was also ordered to pay $120,000 in restitution to the Chicago Police Department for its overtime costs, plus he was fined $25,000

According to Smollett’s attorneys, Illinois law does not allow the police department to be considered a “victim,” so restitution should not have been ordered, according to Variety.

Source link


Attorneys and law firms can elevate their online presence with professionally written content from SEO Content Writing Services monthly plan. Our team of experienced writers specializes in crafting blog posts, articles, and written content that accurately reflect the expertise and knowledge of our clients in the legal field. With a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of legal terminology, we provide high-quality writing that helps our clients stand out from their competition and engage with their target audience. Trust SEO Content Writing Services for one time article writing or monthly written content to handle all of your written content needs and showcase your law firm's expertise.
If you need written content, blog posts, or articles professionally written for your website, we can help. Go HERE to find out more.
or email us here: myseowritingservices@gmail.com
To find out more about our article writing or blog post services, fill out the form, thank you.