TV actor Jussie Smollett stands before Cook County Circuit Judge Steven Watkins on March 14, 2019, at the Leighton Criminal Court Building in Chicago, where he pled not guilty.Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune
Jussie Smollett departs amid a crush of cameras after a court appearance Feb. 24, 2020, at the Leighton Criminal Court Building.Jussie Smollett's attorney Tina Glandian speaks to the media after a court appearance Feb. 24, 2020, at the Leighton Criminal Court Building.Attorney Gloria Schmidt speaks for brothers Olabinjo Osundairo, far right, and Abimbola Osundairo after attending a court appearance for Jussie Smollett on Feb. 24, 2020.
The court, with one justice dissenting, ruled that Cook County prosecutors’ decision to drop charges did not constitute a non-prosecution agreement with Smollett. Justice Freddrenna Lyle disagreed, arguing that “Smollett gave up something of value, community service and bond forfeiture, in exchange for a nolle of the whole indictment.”