Harvey Weinstein Won’t Testify in His New York Retrial – Here’s What We Know
Harvey Weinstein, the former Hollywood producer, has decided not to testify in his ongoing retrial for sexual assault in New York City. His lawyer, Arthur Aidala, confirmed this on Sunday, as reported by the Associated Press.
The trial is expected to continue with closing arguments on Tuesday. The court doesn’t hold hearings on Mondays.
What Is Harvey Weinstein Accused Of?
Weinstein is facing three serious charges:
- Two counts of committing a criminal sexual act in the first degree
- One count of rape in the third degree
These charges are based on allegations made by three women:
- Former model Kaja Sokola
- Former TV production assistant Miriam Haley
- Former aspiring actor Jessica Mann
Weinstein has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
What Happened in Court So Far?
Last week, Weinstein’s defense team began calling witnesses. One of them was Talita Maia, a former roommate and friend of Jessica Mann. Maia wasn’t able to come to court, so the judge allowed her testimony from Weinstein’s 2020 trial to be read out loud. In it, she said Mann never acted uncomfortable around Weinstein or said anything about being assaulted by him.
Other defense witnesses included:
- Thomas Richards, a friend of Jessica Mann
- Helga Semulsen, who lived with Kaja Sokola in New York in 2005
Weinstein Has Never Testified in Court
Just like now, Weinstein didn’t testify in his first New York trial, or in the Los Angeles rape trial in 2022. He was found guilty in both cases and is currently appealing those decisions.
What’s Next?
With closing arguments scheduled for Tuesday, the jury will soon begin their deliberations to decide if Weinstein is guilty or not.
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