Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed Wednesday afternoon that Jussie Smollett is officially a suspect in a criminal investigation for filing a false police report, a Class 4 felony.
Guglielmi said CPD detectives are currently presenting evidence before a Cook County grand jury.
Earlier Gugliemi confirmed prosecutors are speaking with Jussie Smollett’s attorneys as part of their investigation into an alleged attack on the “Empire” actor.
“We are hopeful that we’ll have a chance to ask the questions that we have,” Guglielmi said. “It doesn’t matter what the investigation shows; if you have information that’s helpful to law enforcement, it behooves you to contact authorities and share that information. We have been very diplomatic and have been working with him and his attorneys. We got information, and that what we want to run by him. If the opportunity is not taken [to come in], we’re going to go with other methods to create a culture of accountability.”
Guglielmi said he could not confirm reports that half a dozen subpoenas seeking Smollett’s cell phone and bank records have been issued.
“The only tool for detectives to be able to corroborate information is a search warrant and a subpoena. I am not at liberty to discuss the specifics, but it is not uncommon for any detective or law enforcement to subpoena records,” Guglielmi said.
Wednesday afternoon two brothers who have become central to the investigation were again seen in the courthouse at 26th and California. They were also present Tuesday, when officials said they spoke with prosecutors but did not present any testimony to the grand jury.