An Illinois appeals court has upheld the guilty verdict and five-month jail sentence of former Empire actor, Jussie Smollett, for filing a false police report about an alleged hate crime. Smollett had filed an appeal earlier this year, claiming that his due process rights were violated by Cook County prosecutors. However, the appeals court dismissed his arguments and maintained his conviction.

Smollett's legal team raised several issues in the appeal, including the prosecutors not adhering to a binding nonprosecution agreement. They also argued that Smollett was subjected to double jeopardy, objected to the appointment of a special prosecutor, and claimed that his sentence was excessive.

The appeals court, in its decision, dismissed the claim of double jeopardy, stating that jeopardy did not attach to Smollett's first criminal prosecution as no jury had been impaneled, no witness had been sworn in, no evidence had been introduced, and Smollett had not pled guilty.

Although Smollett was released on appeal after serving only six days of his sentence in March 2022, the court's decision has now reinstated his conviction. Dan Webb, the special prosecutor in the case, hailed the ruling as a "resounding victory for justice." He expressed hope that this decision would restore the public's confidence in the Cook County justice system.

While one judge on the three-judge appeals panel dissented, Smollett's legal team plans to appeal the case to the Illinois Supreme Court, according to a statement given to The New York Times.

The outcome of this case has been closely followed by the public and media, as Smollett's original claims of a hate crime received significant attention and scrutiny. The court's decision is seen as a significant development in restoring trust in the legal system and ensuring accountability for filing false reports.

Overall, the Illinois appeals court's decision to uphold Jussie Smollett's conviction indicates a resolute commitment to maintaining the integrity of the justice system and sending a message that false reporting will not be tolerated.