Jussie Smollett news: 'Empire' actor's attorneys argue for Chicago lawsuit to be moved to federal court

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Thursday, July 4, 2019
Smollett's attorneys argue for Chicago lawsuit against actor to be moved to federal court
Smollett's attorneys argue for Chicago lawsuit against actor to be moved to federal courtJussie Smollett wants the lawsuit that the city of Chicago filed against him moved from state court to federal court.

CHICAGO -- Jussie Smollett wants the lawsuit that the city of Chicago filed against him moved from state court to federal court.

His lawyers argue that would be the proper venue since the actor is a California resident.

Chicago police said that Smollett staged an attack on himself last January in Chicago's Streeterville neighborhood. The city is suing to recover the cost of the investigation.

Jussie Smollett case: Timeline of key moments in alleged attack on 'Empire' actor

"Empire" actor and R&B singer Jussie Smollett told Chicago police in January that two men physically attacked him and yelled racial and homophobic slurs. There have been dozens of twists and turns since then.

Police and prosecutors said Smollett orchestrated the attack with the help of two brothers. One brother was an extra on "Empire" and the other was Smollett's personal trainer.

All charges against Smollett were dropped in late February in exchange for community service and forfeiture of his $10,000 bond payment.

A Cook County judge ruled last month to appoint a special prosecutor in the case. The judge questioned Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx's decision to appoint a deputy to oversee the Smollett case, with the judge saying she did not have the authority to do so.

Also last month, Chicago police released nearly 70 hours of video connected to the Smollett case.

Chicago police released their investigative files and video Monday of the alleged staged attack on "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett in late January.

Previous coverage:

Chicago police release investigative files, video of alleged staged attack on 'Empire' actor

Judge orders special prosecutor to review case; 'Empire' actor could be re-charged

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