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.