CHICAGO — Jussie Smollett — the former “Empire” actor convicted last year of staging a racist, homophobic attack on himself and then lying to Chicago police about it — will be sentenced by a Cook County judge Thursday, ending another chapter in one of the most high-profile disorderly conduct cases in Chicago’s history.

Smollett’s punishment will be meted out by Judge James Linn, who presided over Smollett’s eight-day trial in November and December 2021 when the actor was found guilty on five counts of disorderly conduct — a low level felony charge in Illinois that carries a maximum of three years in prison.

With Smollett’s minimal criminal history, experts say a prison sentence is not likely. A sentence of probation, community service or a fine, however, is in play.

Smollett testified in his defense during last year’s trial and he steadfastly denied any involvement in the phony hate crime plan. After he was convicted, Smollett’s lead defense attorney, Nenye Uche, vowed to appeal.

At Thursday’s hearing, Smollett will once again have the chance to address the court. Unlike the trial, though, Linn will this time allow news cameras inside his courtroom to broadcast the proceedings.

While Thursday’s sentencing hearing could mark the end of Smollett’s criminal case, two federal lawsuits tied to the case are still proceeding.

In one suit, the city is seeking to recoup $130,000 that was spent on police overtime costs incurred during the initial “hate crime” investigation.

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