Judge Linn was damning in his verdict, noting how Smollett on the stand reprimanded someone who, quoting him, used the N-word, and yet himself sabotaged the work of activists for equality.
'The hypocrisy is just astounding,' Linn said.'I believe that you did damage to actual hate crime victims.
'These are people who have a difficult time coming forward. There may be some trepidation.
'I don't know if they are going to be accused of acting like you, pulling a stunt like you.
He told Smollett: 'You're just a charlatan, pretending to be a victim of a hate crime.'
'The damage you have done to yourself is way beyond anything that could be done by me,' Linn said.
'You are now a permanently convicted felon.'
