In a dramatic turn of events, Harvey Weinstein's sex crimes retrial concluded in disarray on Thursday, as the jury foreperson refused to continue deliberations, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial on a remaining rape allegation. This unexpected ruling follows a split verdict delivered just a day earlier in this landmark case that has significantly impacted the MeToo movement.
The mistrial sets the stage for Weinstein, the former studio mogul, to face a third trial in New York. Before this trial commences, the 73-year-old will undergo new sentencing early next month for his previous sexual assault conviction. Despite the serious nature of the charges, Weinstein has consistently denied all allegations against him, with his attorney stating plans to appeal the verdicts.
In the partial verdict delivered on Wednesday, Weinstein was convicted of one charge related to criminal sex acts but was acquitted of another, both involving accusations of forcing oral sex on women back in 2006. Although the jury, comprised of seven women and five men, reached unanimous decisions on these charges, they remained deadlocked on the rape charge involving Jessica Mann, a hairstylist and actress who testified about being raped during a years-long consensual relationship with Weinstein. Mann expressed her determination, stating, “I will never give up on myself and making sure my voice – and the truth – is heard.”
Tensions within the jury began to surface publicly last Friday, when one juror requested to be excused, feeling that another was being treated unfairly. On Monday, the foreperson raised concerns about other jurors allegedly pressuring members to change their opinions and discussing matters beyond the charges presented. The situation escalated, with the foreperson expressing fear of confrontation in the jury room. When Judge Curtis Farber inquired on Thursday about the foreperson's willingness to resume deliberations, the foreperson declined, leading to the judge's declaration of a mistrial on the rape count.
In the aftermath, two jurors challenged the foreperson's account as they exited the court. Chantan Holmes stated that no mistreatment occurred and suggested that fatigue from prolonged deliberation influenced the foreperson's decision. Another juror, who chose to remain anonymous, described the deliberations as contentious yet respectful. Outside court, Weinstein's attorney, Arthur Aidala, remarked, “What happened in that jury room was absolutely improper.”
Harvey Weinstein is scheduled to return to court on July 2 to discuss the timelines for retrial and sentencing. His conviction for first-degree criminal sex acts carries a potential sentence of up to 25 years in prison, while the unresolved charge of third-degree rape is punishable by a maximum of four years—less time than he has already served since his initial conviction in 2020. Weinstein is currently incarcerated following separate sentencing in a California case, which he is also appealing.
Weinstein's initial conviction in 2020 marked a significant moment in the MeToo movement, symbolizing the downfall of one of Hollywood's most influential figures. The movement gained momentum from multiple allegations against him, but his conviction was overturned last year, resulting in a retrial at the same Manhattan courthouse. Accusers have stated that Weinstein exploited his power to manipulate aspiring actresses, offering career opportunities before coercing them into sexual encounters.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized the plight of Weinstein's accusers, stating, “These hopeful young women were trying to follow their dreams in a world that he controlled.” In contrast, Weinstein's defense has characterized his accusers as opportunists who willingly engaged with him in hopes of advancing their careers, only to later claim victimhood for financial gain and public sympathy. Following the latest verdict, accuser Miriam Haley expressed optimism, declaring that it “gives me hope.” Kaja Sokola, another accuser, referred to the outcome as a “big win for everyone,” despite Weinstein's acquittal on charges involving her allegations.
