By Canadian Press

Texts: Chicago prosecutor called Smollett ‘washed up celeb’

Apr 17, 2019 | 7:43 AM

CHICAGO — Text messages show the Chicago prosecutor whose office handled the case of “Empire” actor Jussie Smollett told her top deputy that Smollett was a “washed up celeb” who was overcharged.

The office of Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx released thousands of documents from the investigation late Tuesday in response to media requests.

Smollett was initially charged with 16 counts alleging he lied to police when reporting he’d been the victim of a racist, homophobic attack in January. Police insist he staged the attack.

Foxx said in February that she was recusing herself. But she weighed in on March 8, sending a text to her first assistant that said: “Pedophile with 4 victims, 10 counts. Washed up celeb who lied to cops, 16.”

Kurt Sacher To Retire Next Year

Chinook's Edge Board prepares to launch superintendent hiring process

21h ago

welcome, bienvenue, tánsi

Welcoming Week events start in Red Deer as Premier Smith says no to more asylum seekers

Sep 15, 2024

alleged killing happened last december

One arrested, one wanted in connection to alleged murder on Sunchild First Nation

Sep 15, 2024

Prosecutors dropped all charges later that month with little explanation.

Foxx’s office declined to release internal Smollett case files, noting the case had been sealed by a judge.

___

Check out the AP’s complete coverage of the Jussie Smollett case.

The Associated Press