A grand jury indicted Jussie Smollett with 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct Thursday, adding to the Empire actor’s legal woes after he allegedly orchestrated a hate crime against himself.
Each count of “false report of offense” is a Class 4 felony and, if convicted, Smollett could face up to three years in prison. The actor previously pleaded not guilty when arrested on a felony charge that he filed a false police report stemming from the January 29th attack in Chicago.
“Allegations against Mr. Smollett are shameful & if proven, they are...
Each count of “false report of offense” is a Class 4 felony and, if convicted, Smollett could face up to three years in prison. The actor previously pleaded not guilty when arrested on a felony charge that he filed a false police report stemming from the January 29th attack in Chicago.
“Allegations against Mr. Smollett are shameful & if proven, they are...
- 3/9/2019
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Jussie Smollett was indicted on 16 felony counts of disorderly conduct for making a false report by a Chicago grand jury Friday, according to NBC News.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month, in connection to the incident that he reported on Jan. 29 where he said he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.”
A spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately confirm reports of the grand jury’s 16-count indictment against Smollett when reached by TheWrap.
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Mark Geragos, a member of Jussie Smollett’s defense team, told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding.
The “Empire” star was originally charged with one felony count for filing a false police report by the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office last month, in connection to the incident that he reported on Jan. 29 where he said he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.”
A spokesperson for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office did not immediately confirm reports of the grand jury’s 16-count indictment against Smollett when reached by TheWrap.
“This is not a newsflash. I expected it,” Mark Geragos, a member of Jussie Smollett’s defense team, told “Access” on Friday. “The way the process operates is they have to do a probable cause proceeding, so this is what’s called a probable cause proceeding.
- 3/8/2019
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett was arrested on Wednesday after reportedly filing a false police report. On Thursday, Anthony Guglielmi, chief communications officer for the Chicago police, confirmed that the Empire actor is "under arrest and in custody of detectives." Tom Ahern, deputy director of news affairs and communications for the Chicago police, added that Jussie is facing a "Class 4 Felony charge (punishable for up to 3yrs in prison) for Disorderly Conduct in Falsifying Police report." The actor turned himself in on Thursday morning.
Jussie's arrest comes after he alleged that he was attacked in an apparent hate crime on Jan. 29 in Chicago. The 36-year-old actor claimed that he was leaving a restaurant when two suspects approached him yelling racial and homophobic slurs, punched him, poured an unknown chemical substance on him, and wrapped a rope around his neck. On Feb. 1, the actor released a statement thanking his fans and costars for their support,...
Jussie's arrest comes after he alleged that he was attacked in an apparent hate crime on Jan. 29 in Chicago. The 36-year-old actor claimed that he was leaving a restaurant when two suspects approached him yelling racial and homophobic slurs, punched him, poured an unknown chemical substance on him, and wrapped a rope around his neck. On Feb. 1, the actor released a statement thanking his fans and costars for their support,...
- 2/23/2019
- by Kelsie Gibson
- Popsugar.com
R. Kelly’s lawyer held a press conference Friday night outside the Chicago police station where the singer turned himself in to face 10 charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
“I suspect this is succumbing to public pressure,” Kelly’s lawyer Steven Greenberg told the media. “I think [prosecutors] shouldn’t have rushed to judgment. He’s an innocent man.”
On Friday, the Cook County State’s Attorney indicted Kelly on 10 counts based on the singer’s alleged sexual encounters with four women, including three that were underage at the time. The...
“I suspect this is succumbing to public pressure,” Kelly’s lawyer Steven Greenberg told the media. “I think [prosecutors] shouldn’t have rushed to judgment. He’s an innocent man.”
On Friday, the Cook County State’s Attorney indicted Kelly on 10 counts based on the singer’s alleged sexual encounters with four women, including three that were underage at the time. The...
- 2/23/2019
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
Update: A source confirms to E! News that Jussie Smollett is back on the set of Empire following his release from jail. ______ Jussie Smollett has been spotted leaving court following his arrest. Chief Communications Officer Anthony Guglielmi announced on Thursday morning, Feb. 21, that the Empire star had turned himself in. Smollett's arrest followed hours after he was charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report. In the police report, the 36-year-old actor claimed that he had been attacked in Chicago by two offenders who yelled racist and homophobic slurs at him in the early hours of Jan. 29. Smollet appeared "visibly...
- 2/21/2019
- E! Online
On Wednesday, Empire actor Jussie Smollett was charged with filing a false police report in Chicago after he claimed to have been attacked in the city last month by two men who shouted racist and homophobic slurs at him. Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi stated prosecutors also charged Smollett, 36, with felony disorderly conduct. This could carry a punishment of up […]...
- 2/21/2019
- by Pablo Mena
- Uinterview
Chicago Police superintendent Eddie Johnson called out celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates on Thursday for their decision to amplify coverage of what he said was the “phony attack” against “Empire” star Jussie Smollett.
“The accusation within this phony attack received national attention for weeks,” Johnson told reporters during a press conference. “Celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates weighed in on something that was choreographed by an actor.
“This announcement today recognized that ‘Empire’ actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Johnson continued, adding that the star had staged the attack because he was unhappy with his salary on the Fox show.
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
“I am left hanging my head asking ‘why?’ Why would anyone — especially an African American man — use the symbolism...
“The accusation within this phony attack received national attention for weeks,” Johnson told reporters during a press conference. “Celebrities, news commentators and even presidential candidates weighed in on something that was choreographed by an actor.
“This announcement today recognized that ‘Empire’ actor Jussie Smollett took advantage of the pain and anger of racism to promote his career,” Johnson continued, adding that the star had staged the attack because he was unhappy with his salary on the Fox show.
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
“I am left hanging my head asking ‘why?’ Why would anyone — especially an African American man — use the symbolism...
- 2/21/2019
- by Jon Levine
- The Wrap
Chicago Pd released Jussie Smollett’s mug shot on Thursday, following his arrest the night before.
The “Empire” actor is currently “in custody of detectives” after being charged with filing a false police report, Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said earlier Thursday morning.
The official police photo shows the 36-year-old former “Mighty Ducks” child star looking somber while wearing a black jacket over a white shirt.
You can see his mug shot below:
via Chicago Police Department
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Arrested on Felony Charge of Filing False Police Report
During a press conference later that morning, Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Smollett staged the Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.”
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted...
The “Empire” actor is currently “in custody of detectives” after being charged with filing a false police report, Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said earlier Thursday morning.
The official police photo shows the 36-year-old former “Mighty Ducks” child star looking somber while wearing a black jacket over a white shirt.
You can see his mug shot below:
via Chicago Police Department
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Arrested on Felony Charge of Filing False Police Report
During a press conference later that morning, Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Smollett staged the Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.”
Also Read: Cops: 'Empire' Star Jussie Smollett Staged Attack Because He Was 'Dissatisfied With His Salary'
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted...
- 2/21/2019
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollett staged his Chicago attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary,” Chicago Pd Superintendent Eddie Johnson said Thursday morning during a press conference. Johnson also said Smollett sent the letter threatening himself to Fox, the “Empire” studio.
When Johnson first made those statements, he did not mention their source or his proof. Minutes later, during the media conference’s Q&A portion, the police superintendent responded “yes” to a reporter who asked if that information came from brothers Olabinjo (“Ola”) and Abimbola (“Abel”) Osundairo.
Johnson also said the following of Smollett’s photographed wounds: “So of course it was staged. The brothers had on gloves during the staged attack where they punched him a little bit. But as far as we can tell, the scratches and bruising that you saw on his face were most likely self-inflicted.”
Also Read: See Jussie Smollett's Mug Shot (Photo)
Chicago Pd released...
When Johnson first made those statements, he did not mention their source or his proof. Minutes later, during the media conference’s Q&A portion, the police superintendent responded “yes” to a reporter who asked if that information came from brothers Olabinjo (“Ola”) and Abimbola (“Abel”) Osundairo.
Johnson also said the following of Smollett’s photographed wounds: “So of course it was staged. The brothers had on gloves during the staged attack where they punched him a little bit. But as far as we can tell, the scratches and bruising that you saw on his face were most likely self-inflicted.”
Also Read: See Jussie Smollett's Mug Shot (Photo)
Chicago Pd released...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Jussie Smollet has been arrested by police on felony charges of filing a false police report, Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said early Thursday morning, adding that the “Empire” star is “in custody of detectives.”
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and days later declared him a suspect.
Fox network and studio, the homes to “Empire,” did not immediately respond to our request for comment on this latest development. Smollett’s lawyers also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
On Wednesday night, Smollett’s attorneys said the following through publicists: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information,...
The charges stem from a report Smollett filed on Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and days later declared him a suspect.
Fox network and studio, the homes to “Empire,” did not immediately respond to our request for comment on this latest development. Smollett’s lawyers also did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
On Wednesday night, Smollett’s attorneys said the following through publicists: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Empire actor, Jussie Smollett has been arrested on a Class 4 felony charge for falsifying a police report, according to Chicago police.
The latest twist in the case comes after the actor was charged for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on January 29.
"Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on Wednesday.
"At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters, Supt Eddie Johnson, Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to the defendants appearance in court."
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence on Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
"Chicago Police Detectives take #Empire actor #JussieSmollett into custody to face Class 4 Felony charge (punishable for up to 3yrs in prison) for Disorderly Conduct in Falsifying Police report," added Tom Ahern, deputy director - news affairs & communications.
The Chicago Police Department has filed a Class 4 felony...
The latest twist in the case comes after the actor was charged for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on January 29.
"Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on Wednesday.
"At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters, Supt Eddie Johnson, Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to the defendants appearance in court."
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence on Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
"Chicago Police Detectives take #Empire actor #JussieSmollett into custody to face Class 4 Felony charge (punishable for up to 3yrs in prison) for Disorderly Conduct in Falsifying Police report," added Tom Ahern, deputy director - news affairs & communications.
The Chicago Police Department has filed a Class 4 felony...
- 2/21/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Jussie Smollett has been arrested and is in custody of detectives. Chief Communications Officer Anthony Guglielmi announced the news on Thursday, noting the Empire actor had turned himself in. The news came less than 24 hours after Smollett was charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report. In the report, the Jamal Lyon character claimed he had been attacked by offenders yelling racist and homophobic slurs in January. Smollett's attorney released a statement following the Cook County State Attorney's Office approval of the charges. "Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been...
- 2/21/2019
- E! Online
Jussie Smollett has been arrested and is in the custody of detectives.
The latest development in the case surrounding the Empire star was revealed by Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.
Guglielmi said the arrest happened at 5am local time at Chicago Police headquarters. His bail hearing is expected to be scheduled for 1:30pm on Thursday, according to prosecutors.
Reporters are set to be briefed on the investigation prior to the defendant’s appearance in court, according to Guglielmi, who revealed the news on Twitter.
This comes twelve hours after Smollett was indicted on criminal charges. If found guilty, the actor could spend more than three years behind bars.
Questioned about his role in the supposedly racist and homophobic January 29 attack on an appearance on Good Morning America last week, a then seemingly offended Smollett proclaimed, “Who the f*ck would make something like this up?”
The incident was originally...
The latest development in the case surrounding the Empire star was revealed by Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.
Guglielmi said the arrest happened at 5am local time at Chicago Police headquarters. His bail hearing is expected to be scheduled for 1:30pm on Thursday, according to prosecutors.
Reporters are set to be briefed on the investigation prior to the defendant’s appearance in court, according to Guglielmi, who revealed the news on Twitter.
This comes twelve hours after Smollett was indicted on criminal charges. If found guilty, the actor could spend more than three years behind bars.
Questioned about his role in the supposedly racist and homophobic January 29 attack on an appearance on Good Morning America last week, a then seemingly offended Smollett proclaimed, “Who the f*ck would make something like this up?”
The incident was originally...
- 2/21/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Empire star Jussie Smollett has surrendered to authorities in Chicago and faces a felony criminal charge of disorderly conduct/filing a false police report in connection with his alleged attack last month.
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Thursday. A press conference is expected to be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct, where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
Press Briefing: Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives. At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters,...
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Thursday. A press conference is expected to be held at Chicago Pd headquarters at 9 am Ct, where Superintendent Eddie Johnson and Commander of Area Central Detectives Edward Wodnicki will brief reporters on the investigation prior to Smollett’s appearance in court.
Press Briefing: Jussie Smollet is under arrest and in custody of detectives. At 9am at #ChicagoPolice Headquarters,...
- 2/21/2019
- TVLine.com
Chicago police said Wednesday they have arrested Empire star Jussie Smollett on a Class 4 felony charge for falsifying a police report.
The actor turned himself in early Thursday morning, 5 a.m. local time.
The development comes a day after the actor was charged with federal disorderly conduct by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office following news that he was considered a suspect for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on Jan. 29.
"Jussie Smollett is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on ...
The actor turned himself in early Thursday morning, 5 a.m. local time.
The development comes a day after the actor was charged with federal disorderly conduct by the Cook County State's Attorney's Office following news that he was considered a suspect for filing a false police report about an alleged attack against him on Jan. 29.
"Jussie Smollett is under arrest and in custody of detectives," Chicago Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi tweeted early on ...
- 2/21/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
The Jussie Smollett situation took a big turn earlier this week with the arrest of two brothers who allegedly helped the Empire star orchestrate his own attack. Now, Smollett is facing felony disorderly conduct charges tied to evidence that he allegedly filed a false police report on January 29. The charge Jussie Smollett is facing is a Class 4 felony according to police spokes person Anthony Guglielmi. The news came after reports that investigators were presenting evidence to a grand jury on Wednesday in order to start the process of arresting Smollett and charging him with the crime. Case Update: […]
The post Jussie Smollett faces Class 4 felony charges in Illinois: Here’s what the disorderly conduct and filing a false police report charges could mean for the Empire star appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
The post Jussie Smollett faces Class 4 felony charges in Illinois: Here’s what the disorderly conduct and filing a false police report charges could mean for the Empire star appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
- 2/21/2019
- by Shaunee Flowers
- Monsters and Critics
Update (2/21): Jussie Smollett has been arrested and is in custody in Chicago. The actor faces a felony charge for filing a false report in connection to what he claimed was a hate crime attack that police now believe he staged. Chicago police said in a press conference on Thursday morning that the actor staged the attack because he was “dissatisfied with his salary.”
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Jussie Smollett has been charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report in which he claimed he had been attacked in Chicago last month,...
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Jussie Smollett has been charged with disorderly conduct for allegedly filing a false police report in which he claimed he had been attacked in Chicago last month,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Althea Legaspi
- Rollingstone.com
Update: The Cook County's State Attorney's Office has approved charges against Empire star Jussie Smollett. He was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Filing a False Police Report, which are classified as a Class 4 felony. Anthony Guglielmi tweeted Wednesday evening, "Detectives will make contact with his legal team to negotiate a reasonable surrender for his arrest." Meanwhile, Jussie's attorneys tell E! News in a statement, "Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked. Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough...
- 2/21/2019
- E! Online
“Empire” star Jussie Smollett has been charged with filing a false police report, a felony.
“Felony criminal charges have been approved by @CookCountySAO against Jussie Smollett for Disorderly Conduct / Filing a False Police Report. Detectives will make contact with his legal team to negotiate a reasonable surrender for his arrest,” Chicago Police chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday.
In a statement, Smollett’s attorneys vowed to ” mount an aggressive defense.”
“Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked,” Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson said. “Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
20th Century Fox did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Police: Jussie Smollett Now a Suspect 'for Filing a False Police Report'
On Wednesday,...
“Felony criminal charges have been approved by @CookCountySAO against Jussie Smollett for Disorderly Conduct / Filing a False Police Report. Detectives will make contact with his legal team to negotiate a reasonable surrender for his arrest,” Chicago Police chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday.
In a statement, Smollett’s attorneys vowed to ” mount an aggressive defense.”
“Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked,” Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson said. “Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
20th Century Fox did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Police: Jussie Smollett Now a Suspect 'for Filing a False Police Report'
On Wednesday,...
- 2/21/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Updated, 4: 53 Pm: In a turn of events almost unthinkable just over three weeks ago when an alleged assault against him first came to light, Jussie Smollett has just been indicted on criminal charges by Chicago prosecutors.
With Chicago police having now abandoned seeking another interview with the Empire star, the authorities are talking to Smollett’s lawyers about his arrest, as the department’s chief spokesman said Wednesday:
Felony criminal charges have been approved by @CookCountySAO against Jussie Smollett for Disorderly Conduct / Filing a False Police Report. Detectives will make contact with his legal team to negotiate a reasonable surrender for his arrest. pic.twitter.com/LvBSYE2kVj
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 21, 2019
It is expected Smollett will appear in person on Thursday in a local bond court. If found guilty, the actor could spend more than three years behind bars.
Questioned about his role in the supposedly racist- and...
With Chicago police having now abandoned seeking another interview with the Empire star, the authorities are talking to Smollett’s lawyers about his arrest, as the department’s chief spokesman said Wednesday:
Felony criminal charges have been approved by @CookCountySAO against Jussie Smollett for Disorderly Conduct / Filing a False Police Report. Detectives will make contact with his legal team to negotiate a reasonable surrender for his arrest. pic.twitter.com/LvBSYE2kVj
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 21, 2019
It is expected Smollett will appear in person on Thursday in a local bond court. If found guilty, the actor could spend more than three years behind bars.
Questioned about his role in the supposedly racist- and...
- 2/21/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Update: Smollett has been arrested by by Chicago police and taken into custody. Chicago police confirmed the arrest on social media. Per Variety, A press briefing by Police Supt. Eddie Johnson and Cmdr. Edward Wodnicki will take place later Thursday morning and a bail hearing is expected to be scheduled for 1:30 p.m.
Update: Smollett’s attorneys Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson have issued the following statement to IndieWire through Sharp & Associates PR: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked. Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
Update: Multiple outlets, including the New York Times and Chicago Tribune, are now reporting that Smollett has been charged with making a false police report. IndieWire is still...
Update: Smollett’s attorneys Todd Pugh and Victor Henderson have issued the following statement to IndieWire through Sharp & Associates PR: “Like any other citizen, Mr. Smollett enjoys the presumption of innocence, particularly when there has been an investigation like this one where information, both true and false, has been repeatedly leaked. Given these circumstances, we intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense.”
Update: Multiple outlets, including the New York Times and Chicago Tribune, are now reporting that Smollett has been charged with making a false police report. IndieWire is still...
- 2/20/2019
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Chicago police have revealed a stunning new twist in the Jussie Smollett saga:
The Empire star is now officially a suspect for filing a false police report.
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi took to Twitter to confirm the news on Wednesday afternoon.
"Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury, the tweet reads.
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence On Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
Smollett sought medical and police assistance after the alleged attack in the early hours of January 29.
The actor said that two men approached him in the dead of night, and hurled both racist and homophobic remarks at him.
He also said that the men beat him, poured a substance over him, and put a noose around his neck.
Two...
The Empire star is now officially a suspect for filing a false police report.
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi took to Twitter to confirm the news on Wednesday afternoon.
"Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury, the tweet reads.
Related: Empire: Fox Breaks Silence On Jussie Smollett Exit Rumors
Smollett sought medical and police assistance after the alleged attack in the early hours of January 29.
The actor said that two men approached him in the dead of night, and hurled both racist and homophobic remarks at him.
He also said that the men beat him, poured a substance over him, and put a noose around his neck.
Two...
- 2/20/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Another twist in the ongoing Jussie Smollett saga: The Empire star is now officially classified as a suspect by Chicago police for filing a false police report, which is a Class 4 felony.
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Wednesday:
Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury. pic.twitter.com/FhDcbBKsuU
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 20, 2019
Smollett was the alleged victim of an attack in Chicago last month,...
Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed the news via Twitter on Wednesday:
Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury. pic.twitter.com/FhDcbBKsuU
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 20, 2019
Smollett was the alleged victim of an attack in Chicago last month,...
- 2/20/2019
- TVLine.com
Ending weeks of twists and speculation, Chicago police declared “Empire” star Jussie Smollett a suspect Wednesday “for filing a false police report,” a felony.
Smollett reported Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and then declared him the suspect.
“Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony),” Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said on Wednesday. “Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury.”
Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury. pic.twitter.com/FhDcbBKsuU
— Anthony...
Smollett reported Jan. 29 that he was attacked by two men who shouted racial and homophobic slurs and referenced “Maga.” After releasing two former suspects over the weekend, police said they wanted to interview Smollett again — and then declared him the suspect.
“Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony),” Chicago Pd spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said on Wednesday. “Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury.”
Case Update: Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony). Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury. pic.twitter.com/FhDcbBKsuU
— Anthony...
- 2/20/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Chicago police have named “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett as a suspect in a criminal investigation, three weeks after he reported he was the victim of a hate crime.
Detectives are presenting evidence to a grand jury, which is expected to determine whether to indict Smollett on a charge of filing a false police report.
“Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony),” spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. “Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury.”
If convicted, Smollett could face one to three years in prison. Federal authorities are also investigating a purported threat letter that was sent to Smollett at the “Empire” studio prior to the alleged attack.
Chicago detectives have been seeking to interview Smollett since Saturday, when the department revealed that new evidence had changed the “trajectory” of the case.
Detectives are presenting evidence to a grand jury, which is expected to determine whether to indict Smollett on a charge of filing a false police report.
“Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony),” spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. “Detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County Grand Jury.”
If convicted, Smollett could face one to three years in prison. Federal authorities are also investigating a purported threat letter that was sent to Smollett at the “Empire” studio prior to the alleged attack.
Chicago detectives have been seeking to interview Smollett since Saturday, when the department revealed that new evidence had changed the “trajectory” of the case.
- 2/20/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
The producers of Empire are speaking out again in the wake of reports that it is cutting back on Jussie Smollett‘s Season 5 shooting schedule as the investigation into an alleged attack of the actor — including the possibility that it may have been staged by Smollett himself — continues to unfold.
In a statement released Wednesday, 20th Century Fox said, “Jussie Smollett continues to be a consummate professional on set and as we have previously stated, he is not being written out of the show.”
When unconfirmed reports surfaced last week that Smollett engineered the attack after learning he was being written off Empire,...
In a statement released Wednesday, 20th Century Fox said, “Jussie Smollett continues to be a consummate professional on set and as we have previously stated, he is not being written out of the show.”
When unconfirmed reports surfaced last week that Smollett engineered the attack after learning he was being written off Empire,...
- 2/20/2019
- TVLine.com
Chicago Police have cast aside a tip today that looked to directly connect Jussie Smollett to the former “persons of interest” in the January 29 alleged attack on him as the Empire actor is looking to add more muscle to his legal team.
A resident or someone visiting Smollett’s Chicago apartment told the cops that they saw the actor in the elevator with Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo late in the night of the assault. Now confirmed to have known Smollett socially as an Empire extra and a personal trainer, the brothers were picked up by the police on February 13 and questioned for 48 hours before being released without charges.
The incident was originally described as a racist and homophobic barrage that left the openly gay Smollett beaten, drenched in bleach and with a rope slung around his neck. Previously identified as the individuals in the photos of “persons of interest” in the Smollett case,...
A resident or someone visiting Smollett’s Chicago apartment told the cops that they saw the actor in the elevator with Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo late in the night of the assault. Now confirmed to have known Smollett socially as an Empire extra and a personal trainer, the brothers were picked up by the police on February 13 and questioned for 48 hours before being released without charges.
The incident was originally described as a racist and homophobic barrage that left the openly gay Smollett beaten, drenched in bleach and with a rope slung around his neck. Previously identified as the individuals in the photos of “persons of interest” in the Smollett case,...
- 2/19/2019
- by Dominic Patten and Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Jussie Smollett is facing prison time and the implosion of his career if it turns out he lied about being the target of a hate crime, legal and public relations experts say.
“The best thing that Jussie can do is pray and pray a lot,” said Ronn Torossian, founder of 5W Public Relations. “If he made it up, he has big problems in both the court of law and the court of public opinion.”
The “Empire” star claimed he was beaten up on Jan. 29 by two men who used racial and homophobic slurs. Smollett’s co-stars and colleagues on “Empire,” celebrities such as Ellen Page and Zendaya, and public figures such as Sen. Kamala Harris rallied behind the actor, releasing statements of support. However, Smollett’s account is now being challenged, with police investigating whether or not he paid two acquaintances, Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo, to stage the attack.
Chicago...
“The best thing that Jussie can do is pray and pray a lot,” said Ronn Torossian, founder of 5W Public Relations. “If he made it up, he has big problems in both the court of law and the court of public opinion.”
The “Empire” star claimed he was beaten up on Jan. 29 by two men who used racial and homophobic slurs. Smollett’s co-stars and colleagues on “Empire,” celebrities such as Ellen Page and Zendaya, and public figures such as Sen. Kamala Harris rallied behind the actor, releasing statements of support. However, Smollett’s account is now being challenged, with police investigating whether or not he paid two acquaintances, Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo, to stage the attack.
Chicago...
- 2/19/2019
- by Gene Maddaus and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Empire Cutting Back Jussie Smollett's Scenes as Investigation Into Alleged Attack Continues — Report
Fox’s Empire is cutting back on Jussie Smollett‘s scenes and shooting schedule this week, as the investigation into an alleged attack of the actor — including the possibility that it may have been staged by Smollett himself — intensifies.
Per our sister site Deadline, Smollett will be “a rare presence” on the set this week as upcoming episodes undergo “serious rewrites” to reduce his scenes, while episodes already filmed will remain unchanged. (A Fox spokesperson had no comment for TVLine on the production changes.)
Smollett currently is facing further questioning by the Chicago Police Department after two persons of interest (brothers from Nigeria,...
Per our sister site Deadline, Smollett will be “a rare presence” on the set this week as upcoming episodes undergo “serious rewrites” to reduce his scenes, while episodes already filmed will remain unchanged. (A Fox spokesperson had no comment for TVLine on the production changes.)
Smollett currently is facing further questioning by the Chicago Police Department after two persons of interest (brothers from Nigeria,...
- 2/19/2019
- TVLine.com
Cardi B had something to say about Jussie Smollett. The rapper did not mince words when she went live on Instagram to address her fans over the weekend and speak her mind. During the social media chat, the star brought up the Empire star, who has been the subject of headlines for the past month since he reported to Chicago police that he had been allegedly attacked by two men in late January. Weeks later, the Chicago police department's Chief Communications Officer Anthony Guglielmi told E! News in a statement on Saturday, "We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the...
- 2/19/2019
- E! Online
Empire may be on its typical midseason hiatus, but there's a lot of drama going on off-screen with one of its leads.
Jussie Smollett, who plays Jamal Lyon on the buzzy Fox drama is reportedly losing a lot of screen time as a result of the ongoing investigation into the alleged attack on the actor.
TMZ is reporting that Smollett's role is being drastically scaled back as questions continue to mount about what really transpired in the lead-up to the actor seeking treatment and telling law enforcement he was attacked.
Production on the penultimate episode of Empire Season 5 is well underway, and website is reporting that five of Smollett's nine scenes have been cut.
Related: Fox Standing By Jussie Smollett Following Reports He Staged Attack
What's more, a musical number has also been giving the chop. In the scenes he will appear in, his cast members will be part of them,...
Jussie Smollett, who plays Jamal Lyon on the buzzy Fox drama is reportedly losing a lot of screen time as a result of the ongoing investigation into the alleged attack on the actor.
TMZ is reporting that Smollett's role is being drastically scaled back as questions continue to mount about what really transpired in the lead-up to the actor seeking treatment and telling law enforcement he was attacked.
Production on the penultimate episode of Empire Season 5 is well underway, and website is reporting that five of Smollett's nine scenes have been cut.
Related: Fox Standing By Jussie Smollett Following Reports He Staged Attack
What's more, a musical number has also been giving the chop. In the scenes he will appear in, his cast members will be part of them,...
- 2/19/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Things may be moving towards some sort of formal prosecution in the Jussie Smollett alleged attack case but Chicago Pd have yet to have a new sit-down with the Empire actor as more “developments” come to the surface.
As rumors swirl of a Grand Jury being convened soon on what was once classified as a “potential hate crime” on January 29, the Windy City cops said Sunday that they “cannot confirm any details as the investigation is still on-going.” However, a well-placed law enforcement source tells Deadline that despite emerging and complicating evidence and requests for a further formal interview, Smollett has not made himself available “in a timely fashion” to investigators.
“There are a lot of questions that need to be answered, and a sense of frustration with the response by Smollett and his lawyers,” the source stated.
Amidst signs that Smollett himself has become the subject of deeper inquiry...
As rumors swirl of a Grand Jury being convened soon on what was once classified as a “potential hate crime” on January 29, the Windy City cops said Sunday that they “cannot confirm any details as the investigation is still on-going.” However, a well-placed law enforcement source tells Deadline that despite emerging and complicating evidence and requests for a further formal interview, Smollett has not made himself available “in a timely fashion” to investigators.
“There are a lot of questions that need to be answered, and a sense of frustration with the response by Smollett and his lawyers,” the source stated.
Amidst signs that Smollett himself has become the subject of deeper inquiry...
- 2/17/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Lawyers for Jussie Smollett have refuted claims that the Empire star orchestrated his own attack on Jan. 29, as suggested by Saturday news reports and after the Chicago Pd said the investigation was heading in a new direction.
CNN on Saturday cited Cpd sources as saying that Smollett paid two Nigerian brothers, the persons of interest questioned this week by police, to help him stage the attack, which had originally been described as racist and homophobic.
Later on Saturday, Chicago Pd communications director Anthony Guglielmi said, “We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police … has in...
CNN on Saturday cited Cpd sources as saying that Smollett paid two Nigerian brothers, the persons of interest questioned this week by police, to help him stage the attack, which had originally been described as racist and homophobic.
Later on Saturday, Chicago Pd communications director Anthony Guglielmi said, “We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police … has in...
- 2/17/2019
- TVLine.com
Police think Jussie Smollet paid two bodybuilder brothers to orchestrate the attack in which he said he was beaten, soaked in bleach and had a rope placed around his neck, CNN reported Saturday.
“We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the investigation,” Chicago Police Department chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. “We’ve reached out to the Empire cast member’s attorney to request a follow-up interview.”
The two brothers identified by CBS as Olabinjo Osundairo and Abimbola Osundairo — though police did not release their names — were questioned this week as “potential suspects” then released without charges “due to new evidence” on Friday. CNN cited two law enforcement sources, who said the two men are now cooperating fully with law enforcement.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Denies Hiring Defense Attorney
In a statement Saturday night,...
“We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the investigation,” Chicago Police Department chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. “We’ve reached out to the Empire cast member’s attorney to request a follow-up interview.”
The two brothers identified by CBS as Olabinjo Osundairo and Abimbola Osundairo — though police did not release their names — were questioned this week as “potential suspects” then released without charges “due to new evidence” on Friday. CNN cited two law enforcement sources, who said the two men are now cooperating fully with law enforcement.
Also Read: Jussie Smollett Denies Hiring Defense Attorney
In a statement Saturday night,...
- 2/17/2019
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Attorneys for “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett issued a statement Saturday denying that he orchestrated his Jan. 29 assault, and saying he is “angered” and “devastated” by recent developments in the case.
Chicago police want to interview Smollett, after learning new evidence from two Nigerian brothers who were released on Friday night. Local media outlets have reported that the brothers admitted to police that Smollett paid them to carry out the attack. Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi issued a statement earlier Saturday saying that the new evidence “shifted the trajectory of the investigation.”
Smollett’s attorneys denied that he was involved, saying “Nothing is further from the truth and anyone claiming otherwise is lying.”
Smollett told police on Jan. 29 that two men had attacked him, poured bleach on him, put a rope around his neck, and used racial and homophobic slurs. Police scoured hundreds of hours of surveillance video in search of clues in the case,...
Chicago police want to interview Smollett, after learning new evidence from two Nigerian brothers who were released on Friday night. Local media outlets have reported that the brothers admitted to police that Smollett paid them to carry out the attack. Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi issued a statement earlier Saturday saying that the new evidence “shifted the trajectory of the investigation.”
Smollett’s attorneys denied that he was involved, saying “Nothing is further from the truth and anyone claiming otherwise is lying.”
Smollett told police on Jan. 29 that two men had attacked him, poured bleach on him, put a rope around his neck, and used racial and homophobic slurs. Police scoured hundreds of hours of surveillance video in search of clues in the case,...
- 2/17/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
As Chicago police declare a significant shift in “the trajectory of the investigation” of the alleged attack on Jussie Smollett nearly three weeks ago, the attorneys for the Empire star has come out swinging tonight in his defense.
“As a victim of a hate crime who has cooperated with the police investigation, Jussie Smollett is angered and devastated by recent reports that the perpetrators are individuals he is familiar with,” said defense lawyers Todd S. Pugh and Victor P. Henderson in a statement obtained by Deadline.
He has now been further victimized by claims attributed to these alleged perpetrators that Jussie played a role in his own attack,” the Chicago-based attorneys add of the supposed assault in the early hours of January 29. “Nothing is further from the truth and anyone claiming otherwise is lying.” (Read The Full Statement Below)
Earlier Saturday, a law enforcement official close to the Chicago...
“As a victim of a hate crime who has cooperated with the police investigation, Jussie Smollett is angered and devastated by recent reports that the perpetrators are individuals he is familiar with,” said defense lawyers Todd S. Pugh and Victor P. Henderson in a statement obtained by Deadline.
He has now been further victimized by claims attributed to these alleged perpetrators that Jussie played a role in his own attack,” the Chicago-based attorneys add of the supposed assault in the early hours of January 29. “Nothing is further from the truth and anyone claiming otherwise is lying.” (Read The Full Statement Below)
Earlier Saturday, a law enforcement official close to the Chicago...
- 2/17/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Chicago police are seeking to re-interview “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett, after new evidence emerged in his alleged assault.
Smollett has claimed that two men attacked him at 2 a.m. on Jan. 29, yelled racial and homophobic slurs, poured bleach on him, and put a noose around his neck. The Chicago Police Department has consistently said that it was treating him as a victim, but that appears to have changed in the last 24 hours.
“We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the investigation,” said department spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. “We’ve reached out to the Empire cast member’s attorney to request a follow-up interview.”
On Saturday, Guglielmi reaffirmed that the police department was seeking to re-interview Smollett.
“While we are not in a position to confirm, deny or comment on the validity of what’s been unofficially released,...
Smollett has claimed that two men attacked him at 2 a.m. on Jan. 29, yelled racial and homophobic slurs, poured bleach on him, and put a noose around his neck. The Chicago Police Department has consistently said that it was treating him as a victim, but that appears to have changed in the last 24 hours.
“We can confirm that the information received from the individuals questioned by police earlier in the Empire case has in fact shifted the trajectory of the investigation,” said department spokesman Anthony Guglielmi. “We’ve reached out to the Empire cast member’s attorney to request a follow-up interview.”
On Saturday, Guglielmi reaffirmed that the police department was seeking to re-interview Smollett.
“While we are not in a position to confirm, deny or comment on the validity of what’s been unofficially released,...
- 2/17/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago police believe that Jussie Smollett paid two former suspects in his ongoing assault case to plan the attack, two police sources told CNN.
The two men, who are reportedly brothers, are cooperating with Chicago officers, CNN's report stated. According to the outlet's sources, police have dug up records that show that the brothers purchased the rope found around Smollett's neck at an Ace Hardware in Chicago. One of the brothers appeared on Fox's Empire, Chicago police told CNN.
In a statement provided to The Hollywood Reporter, Chicago Police Department chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said, "We can ...
The two men, who are reportedly brothers, are cooperating with Chicago officers, CNN's report stated. According to the outlet's sources, police have dug up records that show that the brothers purchased the rope found around Smollett's neck at an Ace Hardware in Chicago. One of the brothers appeared on Fox's Empire, Chicago police told CNN.
In a statement provided to The Hollywood Reporter, Chicago Police Department chief communications officer Anthony Guglielmi said, "We can ...
- 2/16/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Update: Two men arrested in connection with a reported attack on Jussie Smollett were released on Friday without being charged. "Due to new evidence as a result of today's interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete," tweeted Anthony Guglielmi, Chief Communications Officer of the Chicago Police Department. ________ Chicago police have identified and arrested "two persons of interest" amid their investigation into an attack on Jussie Smollett. Last month, the 36-year-old Empire actor told Chicago...
- 2/16/2019
- E! Online
Update, 8:16 Pm: Well, the plan that the supposed suspects in the Jussie Smollett alleged assault were going to continued to be questioned and held by Chicago Police didn’t last long.
A little bit over an hour after a Chicago Pd spokesman said that the department had canceled a planned press conference on the status of the two brothers brought in a couple of days ago and arrested today related to the attack in the early morning of January 29, the men have been released due to unexplained “new evidence”:
Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete. pic.twitter.com/Hswn1Qjgcy
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 16, 2019
The release of Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo at near 9 Pm Chicago time surely means...
A little bit over an hour after a Chicago Pd spokesman said that the department had canceled a planned press conference on the status of the two brothers brought in a couple of days ago and arrested today related to the attack in the early morning of January 29, the men have been released due to unexplained “new evidence”:
Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete. pic.twitter.com/Hswn1Qjgcy
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 16, 2019
The release of Olabinjo and Abimbola Osundairo at near 9 Pm Chicago time surely means...
- 2/16/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
The two men arrested and questioned as “potential suspects” in the investigation of an attack on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett have been released without charges “due to new evidence,” a Chicago police department spokesman said Friday.
“Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. No further details were provided.
The men were released about two hours after Cpd announced there would be no news conferences in the Smollett investigation out of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred in the Chicago suburb of Aurora earlier Friday.
Representatives for Smollett did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Drake Documentary Producers Accuse Umg of Trying to Suppress Film in New...
“Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” Anthony Guglielmi said on Twitter. No further details were provided.
The men were released about two hours after Cpd announced there would be no news conferences in the Smollett investigation out of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred in the Chicago suburb of Aurora earlier Friday.
Representatives for Smollett did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TheWrap.
Also Read: Drake Documentary Producers Accuse Umg of Trying to Suppress Film in New...
- 2/16/2019
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
After two days of questioning, the Chicago Police Department announced Friday evening that it has released two suspects in the Jussie Smollett case without filing charges.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that detectives had developed new information in the case. Police no longer consider the men to be suspects.
“Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” he said.
Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today's interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete. pic.twitter.com/Hswn1Qjgcy
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 16, 2019
Also on Friday, defense attorney Michael Monico confirmed to Variety that he is now representing Smollett, one of the stars of “Empire.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that detectives had developed new information in the case. Police no longer consider the men to be suspects.
“Due to new evidence as a result of today’s interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete,” he said.
Case Update: Due to new evidence as a result of today's interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the Empire case have now been released without charging and detectives have additional investigative work to complete. pic.twitter.com/Hswn1Qjgcy
— Anthony Guglielmi (@AJGuglielmi) February 16, 2019
Also on Friday, defense attorney Michael Monico confirmed to Variety that he is now representing Smollett, one of the stars of “Empire.
- 2/16/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
7:30 Pm Pt -- Cops are releasing the Osundairo brothers and they won't be charged. Chicago Pd says, "Due to new evidence as a result of today's interrogations, the individuals questioned by police in the 'Empire' case have now been released without charging." Spokesman Anthony Guglielmi added that detectives have "additional investigative work to complete."Police have now arrested 2 men in the Jussie Smollett investigation -- 2 men with ties to "Empire" -- and TMZ has...
- 2/16/2019
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Chicago police confirmed on Friday that they have arrested two suspects in the case of “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett.
The police did not state what charges the men are being held on. Local media have identified the men as two brothers from Nigeria, though law enforcement has not confirmed their identities.
“Detectives have probable cause that they may have been involved in an alleged crime and we are working to corroborate the allegations and investigative timeline as our investigation continues,” Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement.
Smollett’s representatives have declined to say whether he has identified the men as his attackers.
An attorney for the men, Gloria Schmidt, told CBS Chicago on Thursday that the men know Smollett from working on the Fox show. She denied that they had assaulted Smollett.
Smollett told police on Jan. 29 that he was beaten by two men at 2 a.m.
The police did not state what charges the men are being held on. Local media have identified the men as two brothers from Nigeria, though law enforcement has not confirmed their identities.
“Detectives have probable cause that they may have been involved in an alleged crime and we are working to corroborate the allegations and investigative timeline as our investigation continues,” Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement.
Smollett’s representatives have declined to say whether he has identified the men as his attackers.
An attorney for the men, Gloria Schmidt, told CBS Chicago on Thursday that the men know Smollett from working on the Fox show. She denied that they had assaulted Smollett.
Smollett told police on Jan. 29 that he was beaten by two men at 2 a.m.
- 2/15/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Two “potential suspects” brought in for questioning in the investigation of an attack on “Empire” star Jussie Smollett have been placed under arrest, Chicago police said Friday.
Police provided no further details, including specific charges or whether the men were the same two men who were taken into custody as “persons of interest” by Chicago police on Wednesday night.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday those men — reportedly two brothers of Nigerian descent who appeared as extras on “Empire” — were not considered suspects at the time. Their attorney Gloria Schmidt did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
Also Read: Fox Says Jussie Smollett Staying on 'Empire'; Chicago Pd Rejects Hoax Reports
Smollett was hospitalized on Jan. 29, saying two men approached him on the streets of Chicago and beat him while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.” According to a police statement, the actor reported that...
Police provided no further details, including specific charges or whether the men were the same two men who were taken into custody as “persons of interest” by Chicago police on Wednesday night.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said Wednesday those men — reportedly two brothers of Nigerian descent who appeared as extras on “Empire” — were not considered suspects at the time. Their attorney Gloria Schmidt did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
Also Read: Fox Says Jussie Smollett Staying on 'Empire'; Chicago Pd Rejects Hoax Reports
Smollett was hospitalized on Jan. 29, saying two men approached him on the streets of Chicago and beat him while shouting racist and homophobic slurs and referencing “Maga.” According to a police statement, the actor reported that...
- 2/15/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Fox is standing by Jussie Smollett.
Reports emerged on Thursday night that suggested the Empire star could have staged his attack with the aim of keeping his job on Empire.
"The idea that Jussie Smollett has been, or would be, written off of Empire is patently ridiculous,” reads a statement from 20th Century Fox Television.
“He remains a core player on this very successful series and we continue to stand behind him.”
The comments from Fox came just hours after Bob Elgas, a reporter for ABC7 Chicago shared that, according to his sources, two persons of interest were being questioned about the alleged attack, and that the line of questioning surrounded Smollett conspiring with the pair to stage the attack.
"Breaking: Multiple soucres tell @ABC7Chicago Eyewitness News Jussie Smollet and the 2 men who are being questioned by police staged the attack – allegedly because his character was being written out of the show Empire,...
Reports emerged on Thursday night that suggested the Empire star could have staged his attack with the aim of keeping his job on Empire.
"The idea that Jussie Smollett has been, or would be, written off of Empire is patently ridiculous,” reads a statement from 20th Century Fox Television.
“He remains a core player on this very successful series and we continue to stand behind him.”
The comments from Fox came just hours after Bob Elgas, a reporter for ABC7 Chicago shared that, according to his sources, two persons of interest were being questioned about the alleged attack, and that the line of questioning surrounded Smollett conspiring with the pair to stage the attack.
"Breaking: Multiple soucres tell @ABC7Chicago Eyewitness News Jussie Smollet and the 2 men who are being questioned by police staged the attack – allegedly because his character was being written out of the show Empire,...
- 2/15/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The Chicago Police Department says that media reports of Jussie Smollett staging the racist and homophobic attack he allegedly sustained last month are unconfirmed, while Fox has refuted a claim that the Empire star had been fired, thus precipitating the alleged hoax.
ABC Chicago reporter Rob Elgas tweeted on Thursday that “multiple sources” believe that Smollett and his two assailants orchestrated the headline-making crime, allegedly because his character, Jamal, was being written out of Empire. Another Chicago reporter, CBS’ Charlie De Mar, said that two persons of interest whose home was raided by police previously appeared as extras on the Fox drama.
ABC Chicago reporter Rob Elgas tweeted on Thursday that “multiple sources” believe that Smollett and his two assailants orchestrated the headline-making crime, allegedly because his character, Jamal, was being written out of Empire. Another Chicago reporter, CBS’ Charlie De Mar, said that two persons of interest whose home was raided by police previously appeared as extras on the Fox drama.
- 2/15/2019
- TVLine.com
For the past two weeks, one of the entertainment world’s biggest stories has been an alleged motivated attack on actor and performer Jussie Smollett. Now, a report from Chicago affiliate ABC7 claims that the incident may not have been a hate crime, but a staged situation meant to benefit Smollett’s career — while “Empire” producer 20th Century Fox and the Chicago Police Department have made statements denying the report.
ABC7 reports that Smollett did not appear for a planned Thursday interview with detectives and that investigators are questioning a pair of individuals who may have been involved. The report cites sources who say that Smollett’s character being phased out of the Fox show “Empire” may have been a possible motivation for staging the incident.
However, a statement from 20th Century Fox denies that there were any plans to write off Smollett from the show.
“The idea that Jussie Smollett has been,...
ABC7 reports that Smollett did not appear for a planned Thursday interview with detectives and that investigators are questioning a pair of individuals who may have been involved. The report cites sources who say that Smollett’s character being phased out of the Fox show “Empire” may have been a possible motivation for staging the incident.
However, a statement from 20th Century Fox denies that there were any plans to write off Smollett from the show.
“The idea that Jussie Smollett has been,...
- 2/15/2019
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Updated with Fox statement & tweets: Reports that an alleged attack on Jussie Smollett more than two weeks ago in Chicago was staged as a career move are “unconfirmed,” the Chicago police said Thursday night. At the same time, Fox, the network that airs Smollett’s series Empire, rejected suggestions that the actor was being written off the series, a reason given in reports earlier in the day claiming the attack was staged.
In a statement online this afternoon, a spokesman for the Chicago Pd offered an update on the ongoing investigation into the Jan. 29 assault on Smollett, as well as a stern rebuke to local media.
Media reports about the Empire incident being a hoax are unconfirmed by case detectives. Supt Eddie Johnson has contacted @ABC7Chicago to state on the record that we have no evidence to support their reporting and their supposed Cpd sources are uninformed and inaccurate.
In a statement online this afternoon, a spokesman for the Chicago Pd offered an update on the ongoing investigation into the Jan. 29 assault on Smollett, as well as a stern rebuke to local media.
Media reports about the Empire incident being a hoax are unconfirmed by case detectives. Supt Eddie Johnson has contacted @ABC7Chicago to state on the record that we have no evidence to support their reporting and their supposed Cpd sources are uninformed and inaccurate.
- 2/15/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Updated With Police Statement: Chicago police are pushing back on media reports that said the alleged attack on “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett was a hoax and say the reports are “unconfirmed by case detectives.”
Two Chicago media outlets reported Thursday that multiple sources told them that investigators believe the attack was staged.
Police spent much of Thursday interviewing two persons of interest in the case, who are believed to have been seen on surveillance images on the night of the attack.
Rob Elgas, a reporter at ABC 7 in Chicago, reported Thursday afternoon that “multiple sources” said Smollett and the two men staged the attack because his character was being written off the show. Brad Edwards, a reporter at CBS Chicago, cited a source who said investigators believe the “non-cooperating 2 witnesses are co-conspirators in a potentially staged attack.”
Anthony Guglielmi, a Chicago police spokesman, posted on Twitter that ABC7’s sources are inaccurate.
Two Chicago media outlets reported Thursday that multiple sources told them that investigators believe the attack was staged.
Police spent much of Thursday interviewing two persons of interest in the case, who are believed to have been seen on surveillance images on the night of the attack.
Rob Elgas, a reporter at ABC 7 in Chicago, reported Thursday afternoon that “multiple sources” said Smollett and the two men staged the attack because his character was being written off the show. Brad Edwards, a reporter at CBS Chicago, cited a source who said investigators believe the “non-cooperating 2 witnesses are co-conspirators in a potentially staged attack.”
Anthony Guglielmi, a Chicago police spokesman, posted on Twitter that ABC7’s sources are inaccurate.
- 2/15/2019
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
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