Judge scolds Jussie Smollett, calling allegations "utterly outrageous" if true, before he's released on $100,000 bail

Chicago Tribune

“The most vile and despicable part of it, if it’s true, is the noose,” said Judge John Fitzgerald Lyke Jr., who is black, before setting bail at $100,000. “That symbol conjures up such evil in this country’s history.” The Empire star, who was charged with a felony after being accused of faking his own attack, stood straight before the packed courtroom, according to the Chicago Tribune, which added that the judge "listened to the lengthy allegations with a knitted brow and a look of disbelief." One of Smollett's attorneys said the actor "vehemently denies" the allegations and said they are “inconsistent with Mr. Smollett’s character.”

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