Jussie Smollett’s legal team files for release pending appeal in emergency motion

foxnews.com:

Jussie Smollett’s team is trying to spring the actor from jail while his appeal is heard. His attorneys have filed court paperwork alluding to the idea that he is in harm’s way as long as he is behind bars.

In an emergency motion, which is being described as a "docketing statement," filed on Friday and obtained by Fox News Digital on Monday, lawyers for the former "Empire" star, 39, are asking a judge for a stay regarding Smollett’s 150-day sentence and/or to grant the actor bail pending the status of his court appeal. "Mr.

Smollett has become the target of vicious threats in the social media forums which no doubt reflects the hatred and wish for physical harm towards Smollett which he may experience during incarceration," the filing reads.

On Monday, TMZ shared alleged "harassing" messages to Smollett's siblings aimed toward the actor.   "Mr. Smollett anticipates he will most likely be assigned to segregated incarceration or protective custody, both euphemisms for solitary confinement; a situation which could have extraordinary damage on his mental health," the filing continues. "As a result, any custodial setting poses a safety and health danger to the life of Mr.