He is currently being held in a maximum-security prison in New York state. He had heart surgery after his February 2020 conviction and tested positive for coronavirus a month later while in jail.(Photo by= Reuters) |
[Asia News Communication = Reporter Reakkana] Lawyers for disgraced US film producer Harvey Weinstein have launched an appeal against his conviction for rape and sexual assault. BBC said that Weinstein, 69, was convicted in New York City in February 2020 and later sentenced to 23 years in prison.
It’s seen as a landmark moment in the #MeToo movement against the sexual abuse and harassment of women. Weinstein, formerly one of Hollywood's most powerful figures, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. He promised to clear his name. Filed in New York State Supreme Court, the long-anticipated appeal signals the start of what is expected to be a lengthy attempt to have his conviction quashed. His lawyers argue that the judge made several errors that denied Weinstein's right to a fair trial.
Dozens of women have come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct, including rape, against Weinstein, an Oscar-winning producer. The allegations began to emerge in October 2017, when the New York Times newspaper first reported incidents dating back decades. Weinstein faces further criminal charges, for rape and sexual assault, in Los Angeles, California, where he is due to stand trial. He’s now held in a maximum-security prison in New York state. He had heart surgery after his February 2020 conviction and tested positive for coronavirus a month later while in jail.