The Curious Case of Jussie Smollett
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By: JULIEN CARROLL
An Empire is only as good as its people. Jussie Smollett, star of famous FOX TV show Empire, is caught up in real life drama and allegations this week. Three weeks ago, Jussie was allegedly attacked by two men pouring bleach on his skin, beating him up, and tying a noose around his neck. While feeling, the aggressors yelled out, “This is MAGA country”, according to a TMZ report.
The investigation has lasted over the past three weeks, with the story escalating over that period. Now we have compiled a timeline of events from the racist letter on January 22nd.
January 22nd – A threatening letter accompanied with a white substance was sent to the Empire set addressed to Jussie Smollett. A HAZMAT team concluded that the substance was asprin.
January 29th – Jussie Smollett was allegedly attacked on this date by two men who taunted him with racist and homophobic slurs. Police begin to investigate this as a possible hate crime.
The attackers then poured an unknown chemical substance on him. NBC investigation reports that it is believed to be bleach.
A rope was then tied around his neck, and the attackers fled the scene. While fleeing the aggressors said, “This is MAGA country”.
After the Attack: #JusticeforJussie hashtag appears online in defense of Jussie Smollett. There was a huge online outcry seeking justice for the star.
January 30th – According to the Chicago Police there were two persons of interest in the attack looking to security footage minutes before the attack.
February 1st – Public Outcry for Smollett intensifies as the actor releases a statement saying, “My body is strong but my soul is stronger. More importantly I want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and support from my village has meant more than I will ever be able to truly put into word”
February 13th– Two men were detained as suspects in the alleged attack after returning on a flight from Nigeria.
February 14th – Jussie has his first interview since the incident with ABC World news. The same day Chicago Police say they cannot confirm or deny that the alleged attack was a hoax.
February 16th– Former suspects start cooperating with the police in the case, with ABC sources quoting that the two brothers were paid by Smollett to stage the crime.
Today– Jussie Smollett has yet to speak to Police, the investigation continues.
People are unsure what to believe, if the story was true or orchestrated. If fabricated, this story will bring consequences to the star that he may not have intended. Important figures and even the show have started distancing themselves from the star. Hopefully in the next week the truth will be revealed. In the end, it might have been publicity for the star trying to bring attention to his show Empire.
Source: https://www.eonline.com/news/1015913/jussie-smollett-attack-investigation-takes-a-major-turn-everything-we-know