Police Release Photos Of Potential Persons Of Interest In Jussie Smollett Attack

The actor and his manager say they were on the phone with each other when the alleged assault took place.

Chicago police have assigned a dozen detectives to investigate the alleged attack on Jussie Smollett, and the FBI is assisting in the criminal probe. The Empire star told authorities he was assaulted around 2 am Tuesday morning.

On Wednesday, the CPD released grainy photographs of two potential persons of interest in the case. The images were taken from surveillance video captured on Tuesday between 1:30 am and 1:45 am.

Police have also confirmed video shows Smollett walking across the street from the individuals. The 36-year-old singer/actor then walks out of frame for about a minute before appearing on another camera with a rope around his neck. Currently, there is no any footage of an assault.
Smollett told investigators he was talking to his manager on the phone as the alleged attackers yelled racist and homophobic slurs at him. Police were unable to corroborate that conversation because Smollett would not allow investigators to have access to his phone.

"We have not been able to independently verify this because cell phone records would not be produced. We have no reason to doubt those statements, but we needed to independently verify those statements because of their financial relation," said Chicago police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi.

According to Smollett's account to police, the attackers struck him in the face and then poured a chemical substance on him that is believed to be bleach. They also allegedly wrapped a noose around his neck and yelled "MAGA country" before running from the scene.

Smollett transported himself to Northwestern Hospital. He is said to be in "good condition." Numerous public figures have expressed support for the openly gay entertainer.