Harvey Weinstein is on trial again, this time in New York, where prosecutors accuse him of using his immense power to sexually harass and abuse three women.
Assistant District Attorney Shannon Lucey delivered an opening statement, telling jurors that the disgraced film producer used his influence to get what he wanted from the women. The women alleged that Weinstein would bring them to his room under the guise of a business meeting, before forcing himself on them.
Lucey said the women were afraid to come forward because of Weinstein’s reputation as a powerful Hollywood figure. “They kept their shame and pain to themselves,” she said.
Weinstein’s lawyer argued that the women had “mutually beneficial” relationships with him and were motivated by money. However, prosecutors say the opposite is true – that Weinstein used his power to exploit and abuse the women.
This is not Weinstein’s first trial in five years, but it marks a new chapter in the case against him. The decision by his accusers to come forward has been credited with galvanizing the #MeToo movement against sex abuse by powerful men.
Weinstein faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted of the charges against him. He has already been convicted of rape in California and is serving a 16-year sentence.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgn4y4pzq7o