Jussie Smollett Appeals to Illinois Supreme Court, Arguing Double Jeopardy
Jussie Smollett, the actor known for his role in the television show Empire, is taking his case to the Illinois Supreme Court. Smollett is arguing that he should never have been charged and prosecuted a second time for faking an attack, as the initial indictment was dismissed with a deal from the State’s Attorney.
In legal documents filed with the highest court in Illinois, Smollett claims that after he was first indicted by a Cook County Grand Jury, the State’s Attorney offered him a deal. The deal involved performing community service and forfeiting his bond to the City of Chicago, in exchange for the case not being prosecuted.
Smollett points to the statement made by the prosecutor, who stated that the outcome was a just disposition and appropriate resolution to the case. He argues that he fulfilled his end of the deal by completing community service and forfeiting his bond. Therefore, filing the case a second time would amount to double jeopardy.
However, Smollett’s argument has already been rejected by the trial judge and the Illinois appellate court. Despite this, he is now seeking relief from the Illinois Supreme Court.
The actor was convicted of five felonies related to the fake attack and was sentenced to serve 150 days in jail. However, he only served six days before being released pending appeal.
Smollett believes that the special prosecutor gave in to public outcry when indicting him a second time. He asserts that the initial deal should have protected him from further prosecution. Now, he awaits a decision from the Illinois Supreme Court on whether they will hear his case.
The outcome of this appeal could have significant implications for Smollett’s future and may set a precedent for similar cases involving plea deals and double jeopardy. Only time will tell if the Illinois Supreme Court will grant him the relief he seeks or if he will face further legal consequences.
