Harvey Weinstein's upcoming retrial may introduce new accusers
Disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein could face new accusers in his upcoming retrial in New York, per prosecutors. The retrial comes after his 2020 rape conviction was overturned by the New York Court of Appeals last month. Manhattan's Assistant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg revealed that "some people who were not ready to speak out in 2020" may now be willing to testify. The exact date for the retrial is yet to be confirmed but is anticipated post-Labor Day.
Weinstein's lawyer warned against intimidating witnesses
On Wednesday, Blumberg requested Judge Curtis Farber to instruct Weinstein's lawyer, Arthur Aidala, not to make public statements about witnesses that could potentially intimidate or discourage them from testifying. This request follows recent allegations that Aidala threatened Miriam Haley, one of Weinstein's accusers, with intense cross-examination if she "dares to come and show her face here." However, later, he defended his actions, apologizing but asserting that it was part of his duty to "zealously" defend Weinstein.
Judge advised the lawyers against media influence
Aidala also objected to the prosecution's use of the term "survivors" for new women who testify, labeling it a "conclusionary term." "Who's standing up for him? He knows he has never done anything like this," he said. In response, Judge Farber sustained the objection and advised both parties not to be swayed by media coverage, asserting that the retrial would be "free from the court of public opinion."
Overturned conviction led to Weinstein's retrial
In April, New York's highest court ruled in a four-three decision that too many women were allowed to testify about allegations but were not part of the case during Weinstein's 2020 trial. This led to the reversal of Weinstein's 23-year sentence. Despite this, he remains in custody due to a separate Los Angeles conviction where he was sentenced to 16 years for sexual assault following a 2022 trial. The next hearing for Weinstein is scheduled for July 9.
The rise and fall of Weinstein
Weinstein is the co-founder of Miramax, which has produced Hollywood movies such as Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989), Pulp Fiction (1994), and Shakespeare in Love (1998). The lattermost won him an Oscar. The allegations of sexual abuse against him first surfaced in 2017, leading to his expulsion from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Reportedly, over 70 women have accused him over the years, and it was the crusade against him that ignited the #MeToo movement in Hollywood.
