Hate crimes

Chicago Police Now Consider Jussie Smollett a Suspect

CPD: "Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation."

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Smollett
PictureGroup/Sipa USA/Newscom

It's official: Jussie Smollett is no longer considered a victim, but rather, a suspect.

Authorities now believe the Empire actor filed a false police report when he claimed that two men attacked him and shouted "MAGA country" while he was out for a late-night walk.

"Jussie Smollett is now officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation by #ChicagoPolice for filing a false police report (Class 4 felony)," said police spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi in a tweet.

This statement confirms earlier news reports that two men questioned about the attack—brothers Abimbola and Olabinjo Osundairo, who were extras on Smollett's show and knew him personally—were purportedly hired by Smollett to carry out the hoax attack.

Police detectives are currently presenting their evidence against Smollett to a grand jury, according to ABC News.

Update: Jussie Smollett has been charged with felony disorderly conduct.

Earlier this week, I appeared on Fox News to discuss the case, and explain why the common perception that hate crimes are increasing is wrong. Watch below.