New York, NY – Prosecutors in Manhattan are preparing to bring forth new allegations from at least one additional victim against former movie producer Harvey Weinstein. The move comes after Weinstein’s previous conviction was overturned on appeal in April, with prosecutors stating that they have been evaluating claims from women who have come forward since then.
Assistant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg informed Judge Curtis Farber that they believe Weinstein forcibly raped and sexually abused women in Manhattan within the statute of limitations. Despite Weinstein denying all allegations of sexual misconduct, the prosecutors are planning to present these new allegations to a grand jury.
Weinstein, who appeared in court in a wheelchair due to health issues, is facing potential new charges as the prosecutors work on building their case. Defense attorney Arthur Aidala has accused the prosecutors of delay tactics, while the prosecutors have refuted these claims, stating that multiple women have come forward with allegations against Weinstein.
During a recent hearing, Farber cautioned the defense about making statements that could be seen as attempting to intimidate a former production assistant, Miriam Haley, who was a victim in Weinstein’s previous conviction. Without Haley’s participation in a retrial, Weinstein could face no more than time served if found guilty again.
In addition to the legal challenges he is facing in New York, Weinstein is also contending with a separate rape conviction in Los Angeles. His defense attorneys in that case have argued that he did not receive a fair trial, resulting in a 16-year prison sentence. Weinstein is expected to appear in court again on July 19 for further developments in his ongoing legal battles.