Disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein now has another moniker attached to his name forever: Convicted sex offender. This, as Weinstein has been found guilty on one count of criminal sexual assault in the first degree, and rape in the third degree.
If there’s good news for his camp, it’s that Weinstein was acquitted on rape in the first degree and two charges of predatory sexual assault. While that removes the possibility of life in prison, he still faces up to 29 years behind bars. A stunned Weinstein reportedly made eye contact with each juror as they each said “yes” when asked if that was their verdict.
While the 67-year-old was able to walk without the aid of the walker he’s been seen with during the trial as he was hauled away, he was later taken to a local hospital to be evaluated for chest pains and palpitations. Attorneys say he’s “fine.” Weinstein will remain in custody until he’s sentenced March 11th.
The verdict, defense motioned for a mistrial before the verdict was read due to an anonymous email alleging that one of the jurors was leaning toward acquittal but was pressured to vote for conviction. The judge did not seem to find this email credible, calling it likely a “clever” attempt to poison the trial.
Meanwhile, as Weinstein’s accusers begin to come to terms with the verdict, the TIME’S UP Foundation is also speaking out about what it means for the world at large. President of the TIME’S UP Foundation Tina Tchen says the jury’s decision sends a “powerful message” about the progress that has been made since the Weinstein Silence Breakers “ignited an unstoppable movement.” She added that this is a historic moment, but the fight to fix the broken system that allows for serial abusers like Weinstein is not over yet.
Source: New York Daily News
