The downfall of film producer Harvey Weinstein after the revelations of the sex crimes he committed started a movement against predators, especially those who sit in elite positions and usually get away.
On Wednesday, the disgraced producer was found guilty of committing a criminal sexual act against Miriam Haley. A Manhattan jury delivered the verdict after nearly a week of tense deliberations.
Weinstein, once a Hollywood powerhouse, faced retrial on charges previously decided in 2020. That verdict was overturned on appeal. In this retrial, he was acquitted of a charge involving former Polish model Kaja Sokola.
Jurors, however, could not decide on a third charge concerning Jessica Mann, an aspiring actress, who Weinstein attacked in a Manhattan hotel room in 2013
Jury Room Tensions Surface
Deliberations took a dramatic turn. One juror told the judge he felt unsafe after a heated exchange. “I can’t go back in there,” he reportedly said. Other jurors allegedly shouted and made veiled threats like, “I’ll meet you outside one day.”
Judge Curtis Farber acknowledged the conflict but did not declare a mistrial. Weinstein had requested one, arguing he wasn’t receiving a fair trial. “You are endangering me,” he told the judge.
Victims React with Relief
After the verdict, Miriam Haley, “Project Runway” production assistant and Weinstein’s victim, said it gave her hope. “The myth of the perfect victim is fading,” she said. “I hope this result empowers others to speak out.”
Sokola called it “a big win for everyone.” She stood by her testimony and encouraged others to come forward.
Jessica Mann, whose case remains undecided, released a statement. “Rape can happen in relationships. I would never lie about something so traumatic.” She also accused Weinstein’s team of trying to smear her reputation.
Weinstein Still Faces Years Behind Bars
This conviction adds to Weinstein’s legal troubles. He already serves a 16-year sentence in California and had previously been sentenced to 23 years in New York, though that was later vacated.
Weinstein, now 73, appeared in court in a wheelchair. He has leukaemia and remains in custody at a Manhattan hospital.
Throughout the trial, Weinstein denied all allegations. He claimed all sexual encounters were consensual. His lawyers argued the accusers had ongoing relationships with him and benefited from career opportunities.
A Test for the #MeToo Era
This trial reignites the #MeToo movement spotlight. Though the cultural wave has slowed, the verdict shows that accountability can still follow powerful men. For many, it’s not just about Weinstein, it’s about changing the culture of silence around sexual abuse.
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