Thursday Scoop: Jussie Smollett

The big story…

Jussie Smollett Now a Suspect in Criminal Investigation

Actor Jussie Smollett – of “Empire” fame – was officially classified as a suspect in a criminal investigation Wednesday for allegedly filing a false police report. CNN reports, “A Cook County grand jury was hearing evidence just weeks after the young actor reported being the victim of a hate crime on January 29, the police spokesman said. Filing a false police report is a Class 4 felony.” Two law enforcement officials familiar with the case have said that police believe Smollett paid two brothers to orchestrate an assault against him. The actor denies playing a role in his attack.

In national news…

Coast Guard Lieutenant Arrested for ‘Domestic Terrorism’

Last week, a lieutenant in the Coast Guard was arrested for drafting an email discussing biological attacks as well as a hit list consisting of prominent Democrats and members of the media. The defendant will also be appearing in court today on previous drug and gun charges.

In global news…

Fire in Bangladesh Kills 81

A fire broke out on Thursday in the capital of Bangladesh, ravaging the 400-year-old buildings in the city’s shopping district and killing at least 81 people. Firefighters spent more than 10 hours attempting to control the fire, uncovering bodies, and removing 51 people who were injured. This is not the first time a fire has caused destruction in this area of the city. In 2010, a fire claimed at least 123 lives, after which government officials promised to bring the ancient buildings up to code.

In music…

J. Cole Goes on Twitter Rant After the Grammys

The 61st Grammy Awards last week was full of drama, even before the show started. Both Drake and Kendrick Lamar declined to perform, and Childish Gambino didn’t even show up. Gambino’s “This is America” was the first rap song to win song of the year and record of the year, but Donald Glover was not there to pick up the statues. Cardi B also won big (best rap album) and seemed truly shocked to have come out on top in the category.

Shortly after the ceremony ended, J. Cole took to Twitter to congratulate his friends in the hip-hop community. Through four different tweets, he shouted out Cardi B, Jay Rock, Anderson Paak, Travis Scott, Young Thug, Ella Mai, and 6lack. Read more in Devin Townsend’s report for CMN.

Trending today…

Trump’s ‘Do

How to look presidential in one easy step.

Last but not least…

Viewpoint: New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival Is the One to Catch in 2019

Starting April 25th and ending May 5th in New Orleans, La., the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival celebrates their 50th year as being the greatest music festival in America. Some will argue Lollapalooza, Coachella, or other music festivals triumph the rest, but I highly disagree. It is hard for me to have a view on this subject because I have never been to NOJH, but based on studying their website, I can’t imagine a festival being more significant. Read more in Adam Shay’s report for CMN.

Today’s Morning Scoop was made possible by Adam Shay, Devin Townsend, Natalia Kolenko, and the CMN Staff. Samsung’s new foldable phone is here, and it can be yours for only $1,980. P.S. Was this newsletter forwarded by a friend? Subscribe here to get the Morning Scoop straight to your inbox every day.