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Harvey Weinstein Retrial Opens with Stark Contrasts Between Prosecution and Defense

The Manhattan jury hears opening statements as prosecutors depict Weinstein as a coercive abuser, while the defense argues the encounters were consensual.

Harvey Weinstein et son avocat Arthur Aidala lors de l’ouverture du procès.
Le producteur multi-oscarisé Harvey Weinstein entouré de ses avocats.
Harvey Weinstein lors de son deuxième procès devant la cour criminelle de Manhattan, en avril 2025.
Harvey Weinstein au tribunal de New York, où il est rejugé après l'annulation de sa condamnation à vingt-trois ans de prison.

Overview

  • Harvey Weinstein faces a retrial in Manhattan on charges of rape and sexual assault after his 2020 conviction was overturned in 2024 due to procedural errors.
  • Prosecutor Shannon Lucey portrayed Weinstein as a powerful figure who exploited vulnerable women, stating he 'did not accept refusal' and used his influence to coerce victims.
  • The defense, led by Arthur Aidala, contends that the relationships were consensual, framing the accusations as 'promotions canapé' involving aspiring actresses seeking career advancement.
  • The trial includes allegations from Mimi Haleyi (2006), Jessica Mann (2013), and Kaja Sokola (2006), with Sokola's case involving a new charge of sexual assault with penetration.
  • Weinstein, who remains incarcerated on a separate 16-year California sentence, hopes for a 'fresh perspective' on the case, which is expected to run through late May.