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Chicago media attorneys are not quite done with Jussie Smollett. Attorneys for the Chicago Tribune and other news organizations appeared in court on Tuesday seeking to get the documents and court file of Jussie Smollett’s case unsealed. The intense secrecy surrounding the case, especially since it was shockingly dismissed last week has lead attorneys to demand more information.
No objections were made when Smollett’s lawyer sought immediate sealing of all court records and documents. The quick sealing of the court file meant documents began disappearing from electronic public records within hours. By the end of the day, all traces of the case had been wiped from the circuit clerk’s computer system. Under Illinois law, defendants whose charges are dropped can in certain circumstances have their records sealed immediately.
Attorney Natalie Spears, who represents about 15 news organizations, told the judge that in a case of such immense public interest, “allowing the public to understand what the government is up to” is critical to maintaining trust in the legal system.
Smollett faced a 16-count felony indictment for allegedly staging a racist and homophobic attack on himself in downtown Chicago in order to further his career.
Source: Chicago Tribune