Jurors in Harvey Weinstein’s retrial reached a partial verdict, finding him guilty of sexually assaulting one woman but not guilty of assaulting another. They were, however, unable to reach a unanimous decision on a third woman’s allegations, prompting Judge Curtis Farber to request more deliberation. Weinstein, 73, denied all charges, maintaining that any interactions were consensual and “transactional.”
The retrial follows a 2020 conviction, which was overturned by the New York state Court of Appeals due to improper testimony being permitted during that trial. The retrial featured testimonies from accusers including Miriam Haley, Jessica Mann, and Kaja Sokola, who described instances of sexual assault by Weinstein, including forcible oral sex. Prosecutors argued that Weinstein exploited aspiring actresses and threatened their careers to silence them, while the defense portrayed the encounters as opportunities for the women.
Weinstein’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, questioned the credibility of the accusers, suggesting they were motivated by greed and seeking to capitalize on the #MeToo movement. Conversely, Assistant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg emphasized the gravity of Weinstein’s actions and his powerful influence in Hollywood.
Despite the retrial’s proceedings, Weinstein is expected to return to California to serve a 16-year sentence from a separate 2022 conviction for rape. His health has been a concern, exacerbated by recent diagnoses, including chronic myeloid leukemia. Throughout his career, Weinstein produced numerous acclaimed films and won an Oscar but has faced extensive allegations of sexual misconduct since the #MeToo movement gained momentum. He continues to deny any illegal actions, framing his behavior as immoral but not criminal.
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