Actor Jussie Smollett's Charges Dropped with Little Explanation

All charges have been dropped against "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett Tuesday after Chicago prosecutors offered a vague explanation as to why.

Smollett was originally faced with 16 felony counts for allegedly staging a hate crime attack.

“After reviewing all of the facts and circumstances of the case, including Mr. Smollet’s volunteer service in the community and agreement to forfeit his bond to the City of Chicago, we believe this outcome is a just disposition and appropriate resolution to this case,” The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office said.

Just a week ago, Chicago's police union demanded a federal probe into Attorney Kim Foxx for allegedly "interfering in the case after being contacted by Michelle Obama's former chief of staff," Page Six reports.

The county's top prosecutor allegedly tried to convince Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson to turn Smollett’s case over to the FBI — after Tina Tchen, the former senior Obama aide, reached out to her, saying the “Empire” star’s family had “concerns.”

Foxx had recused herself from the case in February after reaching out to one of Smollett's relatives.

Smollett will forfeit his posted bond of $10,000. The money will be turned over to the City of Chicago Law Department.

“I want to thank my family, my friends, the incredible people of Chicago and all over the country, in the world, who have prayed for me and supported me and who have shown me so much love,” the actor said after his hearing.

Photo: Getty Images


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