Jussie Smollett: Chicago prosecution was malicious
In this March 26, 2019 file photo, Actor Jussie Smollett talks to the media before leaving Cook County Court after his charges were dropped, in Chicago. Chicago’s top prosecutor has released 2,000 documents in the Jussie Smollett’s case and explained she recused herself from an investigation into his claim he’d been the target of a racist, anti-gay attack solely because of false rumors she was related to the “Empire” actor. The Friday, May 31, 2019 statement from Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx came two months after her office’s suddenly dropped all charges against Smollett that accused him of staging the attack on himself.
Former “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett says his $10,000 payment after the close of a criminal case should prevent Chicago from seeking reimbursement for a police investigation of his claim that he was a victim of a racist and homophobic attack.
Smollett’s attorneys filed a response Tuesday to Chicago’s lawsuit in federal court. They also filed a counterclaim against the city, saying Smollett was the victim of a malicious prosecution that caused humiliation and extreme distress.
Smollett told police that he was beaten in January by two men who looped a noose around his neck. Chicago police said it was staged, and Smollett was charged with making a false report.
But prosecutors in March dropped the case. Smollett maintains his innocence but agreed to let authorities keep a $10,000 bail.
