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Empire actor Jussie Smollett was arraigned on Thursday on a 16-count indictment of lying to police about being the victim of a hate crime. Smollett pleaded not guilty, according to USA Today. His attorney Tina Glandian entered the plea.
Chicago police say Smollett staged a racist, homophobic attack on himself. Smollett said he was attacked in downtown Chicago by two white men in ski masks. The actor said the men told him “this is MAGA country,†tied a rope around his neck, and poured bleach on him. Police say the attack was a hoax.
Earlier this week, Smollett appeared in court for a hearing to determine if cameras would be allowed inside the courtroom for his upcoming trial. Smollett’s next court date is set for April 17.