Harvey Weinstein faced new charges of sex crimes in a New York City courtroom on Wednesday. He pleaded not guilty to a count of criminal sexual act in the first degree. This charge involves engaging in oral or anal sexual conduct with another person through force. The Manhattan District Attorney revealed that the charge stemmed from an alleged assault in 2006.
Weinstein, a former Hollywood producer, is recovering from heart surgery and takes multiple medications. Over 80 women have accused him of sexual misconduct, sparking the #MeToo movement. Weinstein denies the allegations, claiming the encounters were consensual. A previous conviction against him was overturned due to trial errors, leading to a retrial.
Weinstein’s new trial is set to start on November 12. Testimonies from survivors like Jessica Mann and Mimi Haley will play a key role. Despite facing legal challenges, Weinstein’s impact on the entertainment industry has been significant. His downfall in 2017 initiated a wave of allegations against other powerful figures.
Vocabulary List:
- Allegation /ˌæl.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ (noun): A claim or assertion that someone has done something illegal or wrong.
- Consent /kənˈsɛnt/ (noun): Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.
- Assault /əˈsɔːlt/ (noun): A physical attack or a threat of attack.
- Charges /tʃɑrdʒɪz/ (noun): Formal accusations made typically by a legal authority.
- Significant /sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt/ (adjective): Having a particular meaning; important.
- Retrial /ˈriːtraɪəl/ (noun): A new trial of a case that has been previously tried.
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