Crime & Safety
Brothers Release Apology After Smollett Incident
Two brothers have released a statement after police said they were involved in the staged attack with "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett.
CHICAGO — Two brothers have released a statement expressing "tremendous regret" for their reported involvement in what police said was a staged attack on "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett, according to a report. The brothers' lawyer released the statement to ABC 7 late Thursday, the outlet reported.
"My clients have tremendous regret over their involvement in this situation, and they understand how it has impacted people across the nation, particularly minority communities and especially those who have been victims of hate crimes themselves," the statement to ABC 7 read.
Smollett claimed he was attacked in Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood by men who yelled homophobic and racial slurs at him. Smollett said they doused him with a chemical, believed to be bleach, and wrapped a rope around his neck. The actor also claimed the men called out "This is MAGA country" during the attack.
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Smollett staged the attack to advance his career and make more money, Chicago Police Supt. Eddie Johnson said.
Johnson said Smollett hired two brothers, one of whom had previously acted on "Empire," to punch him early on the morning of Jan. 28 and also that Smollett "self-inflicted" cuts and scratches on his face. Smollett "probably knew he needed somebody with bulk" to carry out the scheme, Johnson said.
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About a week before Smollett reported he had been attacked, he sent a racist letter to the set of "Empire," Johnson said.
Smollett's attorneys said in a statement they "intend to conduct a thorough investigation and to mount an aggressive defense."
Smollett's character on "Empire" will be removed from the final two episodes of this season, producers of the Fox TV show announced in the wake of his arrest.
The actor has been charged with felony disorderly conduct. He was released from custody last week after posting $100,000 bail.
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