Former “Empire” star Jussie Smollett is making a legal move by petitioning the Illinois Supreme Court to review his case following a previous conviction for falsely reporting a hate crime. The actor’s decision comes after a lower appellate court affirmed both his sentence and conviction in December.
In 2021, Smollett was found guilty on six counts of disorderly conduct related to the alleged fabrication of a hate crime. His sentence included 150 days in jail, a 30-month probationary period, and a restitution payment exceeding $130,000.
The appellate court’s decision to uphold the conviction and sentencing has prompted Smollett to escalate his legal battle to the highest judicial authority in Illinois. The petition to the state’s Supreme Court indicates the actor’s determination to challenge the outcome of his case.
Jussie Smollett’s legal saga began in 2019 when he claimed to be the victim of a hate crime in Chicago. Subsequent investigations led to allegations that Smollett orchestrated the incident himself, leading to charges and the eventual trial that resulted in his conviction.
The actor has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings, and his petition to the Illinois Supreme Court signals a continued effort to seek legal recourse. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to hear the case will be a crucial development in Smollett’s ongoing legal battle.
As the legal drama surrounding Jussie Smollett unfolds, public interest remains high, with the case raising discussions about the justice system, hate crime reporting, and the consequences of false accusations. The actor’s appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court adds a new chapter to the narrative, underscoring the complexity and significance of the legal issues at play.
