Harvey Weinstein has been convicted on one count of committing a criminal sexual act but acquitted on another during his sex crimes retrial in New York City. The trial, which has gripped public attention, brought fresh allegations against the disgraced Hollywood producer, ending in a partial verdict on Wednesday.
A jury, predominantly composed of women, found Weinstein guilty of sexually assaulting Miriam Haley but cleared him of charges related to Kaja Sokola. The jury, however, remained deadlocked on a third count involving Jessica Mann, prompting Judge Curtis Farber to instruct deliberations to continue on Thursday.
The retrial began in April and included harrowing testimonies from three women who accused Weinstein of sexual assault. Prosecutors charged him with two counts of first-degree criminal sexual acts and one count of third-degree rape. Despite the mixed outcome, the proceedings underscore Weinstein’s contentious fight against the allegations.
Ahead of the verdict, Weinstein addressed the court, alleging bias and urging the judge to declare a mistrial. He cited reports of discord among jurors as evidence of an unfair trial process.
“This is my life on the line,” Weinstein said. “I am not getting a fair trial.” His legal team highlighted claims of coercion, with jurors allegedly engaging in heated arguments and even threats.
One juror reportedly stated, “I’ll meet you outside one day,” according to court records. Weinstein’s lawyer, Arthur Aidala, called the situation “menacing and harassment,” arguing that such tensions undermined the integrity of the verdict.
Prosecutors, however, maintained that jury deliberations often involve pressure and disagreements. Matthew Colangelo, representing the state, asserted that the juror in question was steadfast in their decision but not fearful.
Weinstein’s conviction for sexually assaulting Haley marks another chapter in his legal battles. In his initial 2020 trial, he was convicted of sexually abusing both Haley and Mann and sentenced to 23 years in prison. That conviction was overturned in 2024, leading to the retrial.
During this retrial, both Haley and Mann testified again. Haley recounted a 2006 assault at Weinstein’s apartment, while Mann accused him of raping her in a hotel in 2013. Sokola, a new voice in the proceedings, alleged she was assaulted in 2002 and again in 2006. Sokola expressed relief at the partial verdict, stating it offered some measure of accountability.
Weinstein continues to serve a separate 16-year sentence following a 2022 rape conviction in Los Angeles. For the survivors, this latest chapter represents a step toward justice in their fight against one of Hollywood’s most infamous figures.
