American actor, Jussie Smollett has been found guilty of falsely claiming he was the victim of a racist-homophobic attack. However, the leaders of Black Lives Matter believe this verdict is wrong.
BLM and BLM LA released a statement before the verdict, in support of the actor. The statement read,
“So let’s be clear: we love everybody in our community … we can never believe police, especially the CPD over Jussie Smollett, a Black man who has been courageously present, visible, and vocal in the struggle for Black freedom.”
Despite the fact that the ‘Empire’ alum has been found guilty, BLM LA leader, Melina Abdullah has reiterated that stance. According to Abdula, the organization refuses to abandon its people and stands on the principle that the justice system is corrupt.
Smollett‘s costar, Bryshere Gray, is standing by him also. Gray said, “My prayers, love and support is unwavering for my brother Jussie and the Smollet Family.”
Smollett was found guilty Thursday on 5 of 6 felony counts of lying to Chicago PD.
Since the beginning, Jussie denied claims he staged the 2019 attack and that story has not changed. The actor who also doubles as a director, now faces a possible 3-year prison sentence. However, since he has no previous criminal record, it is unclear if he’ll get any prison time. It is also possible he will have to pay $130k in restitution to Chicago to cover its expenses for investigating the incident.
