Ola and Abel Osundairo have apologized for their part in Jussie Smollett’s alleged hoax.
“My clients have tremendous regret over their involvement in this situation, and they understand how it has impacted people across the nation, particularly minority communities and especially those who have been victims of hate crimes themselves,” attorney Charlie De Mar said in a statement according to CBS 2.
The brothers were initially arrested for assaulting Smollett but were eventually released without any charges. The Osundairos claim Smollett paid them $3,500 to stage the attack. They were caught on tape purchasing rope and baseball hats for the stunt.
As Blavity reported, a $3,500 check has surfaced; however, that check was made out for fitness services. Screenshots of text messages between Smollett and the brothers also show the trio discussing a workout plan.
Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.
After the Osundairos were released, Smollett was charged with disorderly conduct for filing a false police report.
Smollett’s legal team plans to use social media posts from the Osundairo brothers to prove they have a history of homophobia, as Blavity previously reported. The brothers have released a statement denying they are anti-Black or homophobic.
“We are not racist. We are not homophobic and we are not anti-Trump,” it read. “We were born and raised in Chicago and are American citizens.”
Tweets from Ola picking on another man for liking Frank Ocean were publicized earlier this week.
“Why you following Frank Ocean … you know that n***a gay right,” Ola wrote.
Smollett’s next court date is March 14.
Now, check these out:
Florida Teacher Whose Colin Kaepernick Door Decoration Went Viral Forced To Take It Down
Rep. Stacey Plaskett Reveals What Led Her To Roll Her Eyes During The Michael Cohen Testimony
