Tuesday, February 25

Harvey Weinstein’s retrial on rape charges in New York is set for April 15

A court ordered Wednesday that Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced Hollywood tycoon whose sexual misbehavior fueled the #MeToo movement, will be retried on rape charges in New York on April 15.

In 2020, Weinstein, 72, was found guilty in New York of first-degree criminal sex act against another woman and third-degree rape of another woman. He was given a 23-year jail sentence. Last April, a state appeal court reversed that conviction in a 4-3 ruling, finding that the trial judge had erred in permitting women to testify regarding unrelated charges.

Weinstein was indicted on further charges by a grand jury in New York City in September.

Weinstein’s retrial will feature a new accusation involving a woman who wasn’t involved in the initial case, according to Judge Curtis Farber’s statement on Wednesday. In 2006, the woman claims he coerced her into having oral sex at a hotel in Manhattan.

The Rikers Island prison complex is where Weinstein is being detained. Amidst a long list of health problems, he entered the Manhattan courthouse on Wednesday in a wheelchair.His chronic myeloid leukemia was initially reported by NBC News last year.

Citing his health, Weinstein argued for an early trial date during the court hearing.

“I will not be present in April,” he declared. “I am eagerly anticipating tomorrow. I can no longer wait. I’m waiting because I’m seeking justice. I’m ready for this to end.

Farber stated that although he had another trial planned, if everyone agrees, he will try his best to work out a date a week early. Additionally, the judge turned down Weinstein’s lawyer’s request to have the fresh indictment against him dismissed.

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In a post-hearing statement, a Weinstein representative said, “Judge Farber showed great responsiveness, and we greatly appreciate his thoughtful consideration of Harvey’s condition and circumstances.” We continue to have faith that the trial will proceed quickly and effectively, and we are convinced that Harvey will be completely cleared.

In addition to the New York case, Weinstein was sentenced to 16 years in prison after being found guilty of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault in Los Angeles in 2022. The conviction is being appealed by Weinstein’s legal team.

Weinstein has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by over 80 women. He has consistently disputed the allegations, maintaining that the alleged encounters were voluntary.

The New York Times and The New Yorker first reported on Weinstein’s claims in 2017. A broader reckoning in the entertainment and other prominent industries was prompted by the publications.

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