Jussie Smollett Files Appeal Over Jail Time for Faking Hate Crime

In January 2019, actor Jussie Smollette made national headlines when he claimed to have been the victim of a hate crime in Chicago. The actor, who was best known for his role in the hit television show “Empire,” alleged that he had been attacked by two men who shouted racist and homophobic slurs and put a noose around his neck. However, as the investigation progressed, it became apparent that Smollette had staged the attack in an effort to boost his career and public image. The incident sparked a national conversation about the prevalence of hate crimes and the danger of false accusations.

In 2021, Smollett was sentenced to 150 days in jail after being found guilty. After serving just six of those days in prison, Smollette’s legal team is trying to appeal the sentence.

Newly filed court documents indicate that Jussie Smollett and his legal team have already filed a motion to present a case for why the sentence should be dropped.

According to Variety, Smolllett’s legal team has taken issue with the length of the sentence as well as the way the judge handled the case by pointing out mistakes that were made during the trial.

Deadline also mentioned that the motion takes issue with a $10,000 bail that was paid by Jussie to be released from jail and the community service that he completed. His legal team argues that he was “punished for the same offenses by his performance of community service and forfeiture of his bond.”

“Thus, the violation of due process was prejudicial and requires reversal of Mr. Smollett’s convictions and a dismissal of the charges against him,” his lawyer wrote in the newly filed court documents.

It will be interesting to see if a judge grants their motion but given the severity of the case and his existing sentence, you never know. Stay tuned to Thirsty For News as we bring you similar stories.

What’s your take on this story? Sound off in the comments section.