“Pedophile with 4 victims 10 counts,” Ms. Foxx said in the message. The messages involving Ms. Foxx and her office also suggested that Ms. Foxx remained aware of developments in the case even as she publicly distanced herself from it. Mr. Smollett had told detectives that two men placed a rope around his neck, poured a chemical on him and used the phrase “MAGA country,” referencing President Trump’s campaign slogan. But Superintendent Johnson said the report was faked, flatly stating: “Mr. Smollett is the one who orchestrated this crime.” Mr. Smollett has maintained his innocence.

Source: New York Times April 17, 2019 19:59 UTC