Trial Begins In Jussie Smollett Hoax Attack Case

Jussie Smollett is finally having his day in court. The actor claimed in 2019 that he was the victim of a racist, homophobic attack. The circumstances were found to have been falsified by Smollett. A grand jury indicted him on six counts related to lying to police about the attack.

The trial began today in Chicago, amidst much fanfare. According to TMZ, Smollett was flanked by several family members. This is the second effort to nab Jussie for lying. In March of 2019, sixteen charges were suddenly dropped by the prosecutor handling the case.

After the matter was shown to a grand jury by a special prosecutor assigned to the investigation, the six new charges emerged. Those are what Jussie Smollett is now facing as he battles for his reputation. The alleged attackers have said the entire incident was staged by Smollett.

Jussie claimed originally that two white males attacked him at 2AM. They allegedly used homophobic and racist language towards him as they poured bleach on him. They also allegedly yelled, “This is MAGA country” and left a noose around the actor’s neck.

Abel and Ola Osundario claimed responsibility for the hoax, working in conjunction with Smollett. They told police that Jussie paid them to fake the attack. Neither Abel or Ola is white. The brothers will testify in the trial.

The trial was delayed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Now, jury selection has begun, and the proceedings are underway. If he’s found guilty on all six counts, Jussie Smollett faces a maximum of three years imprisonment.

Do you think Jussie Smollett is guilty? Share your thoughts in the comments!