Harvey Weinstein, the former Hollywood mogul whose name became synonymous with the #MeToo movement, has been indicted once again in New York on new charges of sexual assault. This latest indictment focuses on allegations involving a woman from 2013 and includes serious charges such as predatory sexual assault and other related offenses.
- Disgraced film mogul Harvey Weinstein was in court
- He plead not guilty to one count of criminal sex act
- THIS is what lawyers said
Not guilty
Weinstein is accused of forcibly engaging “in oral sexual conduct” with a woman at some point between April 29, 2006 and May 6, 2006 in New York, according to a copy of the indictment obtained by CNN.
An attorney for the woman whose grand jury testimony served as the basis of the new indictment said she intends to testify at trial.
“Ms. Doe has not shared this story publicly before, nor does she want to be identified at this time. She will be fully prepared to speak her truth at trial to hold Mr. Weinstein accountable before a jury of his peers,” Lindsay M. Goldbrum, an attorney for Jane Doe, said in a statement.
“Thanks to this survivor who bravely came forward, Harvey Weinstein now stands indicted for an additional alleged violent sexual assault,” said New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg on Wednesday, adding that the investigation is ongoing. The DA’s office also specified the incident occurred at a lower Manhattan hotel.
Weinstein's legal troubles began in earnest in 2017 when numerous allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced, revealing a pattern of abuse that spanned decades.
In 2020, he was convicted of rape and sexual assault, receiving a 16-year prison sentence. His conviction marked a significant moment in the fight against sexual harassment and assault, signaling a shift in societal attitudes toward such behaviors, particularly within the entertainment industry.
A retrial on the 2020 charges is tentatively set to begin on November 12.
Prosecutors on Wednesday moved to consolidate this latest indictment with the upcoming retrial, which Weinstein’s attorneys have opposed.
“We are prepared to go to trial and defend Harvey for the original remaining charges,” Juda Engelmayer, a spokesperson for Weinstein, said in a statement sent to CNN on Wednesday. Yet, we will vociferously and legally challenge any effort to defend this new charge until we fully understand it, can research and investigate the claim, and boldly defend Harvey against (it).”
The new indictment expands on the scope of Weinstein’s alleged misconduct, detailing incidents that prosecutors say illustrate a troubling pattern of predatory behavior.
The 2013 incident, which is central to this indictment, reportedly involved aggressive and coercive actions that have been described as characteristic of Weinstein's modus operandi. Prosecutors are emphasizing the importance of these new charges as part of their commitment to holding him accountable for his actions.
New impact
The indictment reflects a broader legal strategy aimed at addressing historical cases of sexual violence and ensuring that survivors have a platform to pursue justice. The District Attorney's office has expressed a determination to tackle such cases head-on, asserting that they are committed to supporting victims and pursuing all avenues of accountability.
Weinstein's legal team has denied the allegations in the new indictment, arguing that any sexual encounters were consensual. They maintain that the legal process has been flawed and are expected to mount a vigorous defense as the case progresses. Weinstein is set to be arraigned in Manhattan, where the specifics of the new charges will be laid out in court.
The implications of this case extend beyond Weinstein himself, as it shines a spotlight on the systemic issues of sexual misconduct in various industries. The legal proceedings could serve as a precedent for other survivors seeking justice, potentially inspiring further actions against those accused of similar offenses.
The renewed attention on Weinstein’s case comes at a time when conversations around sexual violence and accountability are more critical than ever. The #MeToo movement has encouraged countless survivors to come forward, prompting discussions about power dynamics in the workplace and the need for systemic change.
Weinstein's story has resonated with many, serving as both a cautionary tale and a call to action for organizations to implement better safeguards against abuse. The entertainment industry, in particular, has been undergoing a reevaluation of its practices, seeking to create a safer environment for all individuals.
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As the new indictment moves forward, it will be closely watched by the media, advocates for survivors, and the public. The case embodies a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against sexual misconduct, as it seeks not only to hold Weinstein accountable but also to foster a culture of transparency and respect within the entertainment industry and beyond.
