Jussie Smollett Pleads Not Guilty In Disorderly Conduct Case

Jussie Smollett's Attorney Ready for War with City of Chicago

On Tuesday, Jussie Smollet’s attorney formally entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of the Empire star in his disorderly conduct case.

Chicago Tribune’s criminal court reporter, Megan Crepeau describe the courtroom as a small crowded “fishbowl” room where Empire actor Jussie Smollett pleaded not guilty to 16 counts of disorderly conduct. read on for more details…

CelebNMusic247.com reports that Jussie Smollett has entered a plea of NOT guilty to Cook County Judge Steven Watkins.

Judge Steven Watkins ended up granting the actor permission to travel to New York and California to consult with his lawyers, as long as he gives the court’s pretrial services offices notice within 48 hours before travel.

Jussie Smollett was also told by Judge Watkins that he must be present and prompt for all of his upcoming court dates.

Before heading into court, blinded by fame Smollett fans were spotted chanting in support of the Empire star outside the courthouse (below):

The actor was greeted by a handful of supporters at Leighton Criminal Courthouse, this morning. They held signs that read “I Stand With Jussie” and “I Believe Jussie Smollett.”

This is the aftermath after openly gay actor Smollett told police that he was attacked on Jan. 29 by two masked men, who yelled racist and homophobic epithets at the singer.  The actor also stated that the two men allegedly put a noose around his neck and poured an unknown chemical on him. Everyone was on his side until the dirt-surfaced and he got caught lying.

Jussie Smollett Pleads Not Guilty In Disorderly Conduct Case

Chicago Police said that Smollett paid Ola and Abel Osundairo, whose lawyers were present during today’s hearing, to stage the alleged attack, which Smollett denied.

Jussie Smollett Pleads Not Guilty In Disorderly Conduct Case

Smollett must appear in court again on Apr. 17.

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Pete is a California native who has been in the entertainment industry for 20+ years. He is a journalist who covers music, festivals, events, interviews, movie premieres, sports, reality TV, and more.