The Empire star who was arraigned before a court in Chicago on Thursday, 14 March, pleaded not guilty to all 16 count charges. His plea was entered by one of his lawyers, Tina Glandian.
Prior to the arraignment, Judge Steven G. Watkins was assigned to oversee Smollett’s case. Watkins made a small change to the terms of Smollett’s bond, saying he will allow Smollett to travel Los Angeles and New York to meet with attorneys without first formally seeking court approval.
Smollett stands accused of arranging a homophobic, racist attack against himself in an attempt to raise his profile because he was dissatisfied with his salary on the Fox television drama Empire.
Jussie Smollett is expected to appear before the court again on Wednesday, 17 April. A few days ago, Jussie Smollett was indicted in all 16 count charges levelled against him including, lying to the police about his alleged attack.
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