Weinstein Convicted of Rape

After five days of deliberation, the jury in Harvey Weinstein’s criminal trial returned a mixed verdict, convicting the disgraced Hollywood producer of third degree rape and criminal sexual act in the first degree. Weinstein was acquitted of the most serious counts, a charge of first degree rape and two counts of predatory sexual assault. From the NY Times:

Harvey Weinstein, who long reigned as one of the most influential producers in Hollywood, was found guilty on Monday of two felony sex crimes after a Manhattan trial that became a watershed moment for the #MeToo movement.

But the jury acquitted Mr. Weinstein of the two most serious charges against him, predatory sexual assault.

The verdict offered a measure of justice to the dozens of women who have come forward with similar allegations against Mr. Weinstein. For many, the trial was a crucial test in the effort to hold powerful men accountable for sexual harassment in the workplace.

The jury found Mr. Weinstein guilty of two counts, criminal sexual assault in the first degree and rape in the third degree. On the two counts of predatory sexual assault, the not guilty verdicts suggested that one or some jurors did not believe the testimony of Annabella Sciorra, an actress best known for her work in “The Sopranos.”

He faces a sentence of five to 25 years on the top count.