Update6: Smollett reportedly directed at least one of the Nigerian brothers to purchase the rope (at either an ACE hardware store, or the Crafty Beaver hardware store) and hats. They were also paid $3,500 each prior to leaving for Nigeria and promised $500 each upon their return, according to CBS Chicago's Charlie De Mar.
https:// www.zerohedge.com/news/2019-02-16/smollett-hires-michael-cohens-criminal-defense-lawyer-assault-story-takes-dramatic