The Illinois Supreme Court recently overturned actor Jussie Smollett’s conviction for staging a hate crime and lying to police, citing a 2019 agreement that should have barred his further prosecution, The Associated Press reported. Smollett, known for his role on the popular TV show “Empire,” had faced major scrutiny after reporting a racist and homophobic attack in downtown Chicago. Authorities later alleged it was a hoax involving two brothers he knew.

The initial deal required Smollett to forfeit $10,000 and complete community service in exchange for dropped charges. Public backlash led to a special prosecutor reopening the case, culminating in a 2022 conviction on five felony counts of disorderly conduct and a 150-day jail sentence, NBC News reported.

The state’s highest court ruled that prosecuting Smollett violated the terms of his agreement. “Prosecutions should not be based on vindictiveness,” said Smollett’s attorney, Nenye Uche, asserting the actor’s innocence.

Special prosecutor Dan Webb disagreed, emphasizing that the ruling did not determine Smollett’s guilt or innocence but focused on procedural issues. Smollett’s legal team argued that the case lacked direct evidence and was driven by public pressure.

The controversial case proved divisive and some criticized Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx for initially dismissing charges. Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel called the dismissal a “whitewash of justice.” Others, including some of his Hollywood friends, argued he was innocent.

Smollett has consistently denied staging the attack. The court’s decision ends a yearslong legal saga, though questions about Smollett’s actions linger.