Remember Jussie Smollett? You know, the “Empire” actor who staged a hate crime and blamed it on MAGA supporters? Yeah, that guy. It seems karma is not done with him just yet. Smollett’s recent appeal to overturn his conviction was just rejected by an Illinois appeals court, which means he may have to go back to jail to serve out his 150-day sentence. This was a 2-1 decision by a three-judge panel, so it wasn’t exactly a landslide victory for justice, but hey, we’ll take what we can get.
The crux of Smollett’s appeal was the initial decision by Cook County State Attorney Kim Foxx not to prosecute the case, a decision that was later overturned leading to a renewed indictment. Smollett’s team argued that Foxx’s initial decision was essentially a promise that the case was over. But the two justices who upheld the conviction disagreed, stating that Foxx’s decision not to move forward was not the same as a promise never to charge him.
Let’s jog our memory a bit here. Back in 2019, Smollett called 911 and claimed he was attacked by two men shouting, “This is MAGA country.” He alleged that these men dumped bleach on him and tied a “noose” around his neck. However, the story quickly unraveled when it was revealed that the ‘attackers’ were two brothers from Nigeria, whom Smollett had paid to stage the attack.
Smollett was ultimately convicted on five of six felony counts of disorderly conduct for lying to the police. And despite a divided decision, Justice Lyle offered a detailed analysis in favor of Smollett. His rep told Fox News Digital that they are preparing to escalate this matter to the Supreme Court.
Meanwhile, Special Prosecutor Dan K. Webb stated that the appellate court’s ruling affirms the extensive efforts put into the case and represents a triumph for the justice system.
Remember, folks, this is the same Smollett who was sentenced to 150 days in jail, 30 months felony probation, restitution to the city of Chicago, and a fine. And yet, during his appeal, he remained active, releasing new music and directing a film.
If the Supreme Court upholds the conviction, Smollett will have to serve the remainder of his jail sentence. But with the way things have been going for him, I wouldn’t hold my breath. In the meantime, we’ll enjoy this little victory for justice.