Harvey Weinstein Found Guilty Of Rape, Sexual Assault But Acquitted Of Top Sexual Abuse Charges

Harvey Weinstein was found guilty on February 24 by a jury in New York of sex crimes including rape. However, Weinstein, 67, was acquitted of the most serious charges, two counts of predatory sexual assault for which he could have been sentenced to life in prison. He was also acquitted of first-degree rape. The jury consisting of seven men and five women discussed for almost 27 hours over five days. Weinstein landed in trouble three years ago when allegations were made against him. The high-profile case included five charges based on two alleged incidents, raping aspiring actor Jessica Mann in 2013 and forcing oral sex on production assistant Miriam Haley in 2006. Donna Rotunno, Weinstein’s lead defence attorney said her team will appeal against the decision. More than 80 women including Angelina Jolie had accused Weinstein of sexual assault. Harvey Weinstein was one of Hollywood’s most powerful men having backed many financially successful and critically acclaimed films like ‘Shakespeare in Love’ and Gangs of New York.’ But his career and company collapsed in October 2017 after the many allegations were made against him. Harvey Weinstein and his brother, Bob Weinstein, formed the film production company Miramax. They led the company from 1979 to 2005. In March 2005, they founded The Weinstein Company (TWC) and departed from Miramax that year itself.