Harvey Weinstein's rape retrial in New York concluded with a mistrial after the jury deadlocked, marking the third time this #MeToo-era case has gone to trial. Jurors cited inconsistencies in accuser Jessica Mann's testimony as a key factor, while Mann expressed her continued pursuit of justice.
The article reports that Harvey Weinstein's rape retrial in New York ended in a mistrial after the jury declared itself deadlocked. This marks the third time the #MeToo-era case, involving accuser Jessica Mann, has gone to trial. The majority-male Manhattan jury deliberated on whether Weinstein raped Mann in 2013, with Weinstein's lawyers arguing the encounter was consensual. Jurors, including Josh Hadar and Sarae Perez, cited inconsistencies in Mann's recollections and testimony as a primary reason for their inability to reach a unanimous verdict, leading to reasonable doubt. Despite the outcome, Jessica Mann stated, 'I deserve justice,' and affirmed the truth of her account. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg praised Mann's perseverance and bravery, indicating that prosecutors will consult with her about potential next steps, including a possible fourth trial. The article provides context on how the case returned for a third trial, detailing Weinstein's previous conviction in 2020 which was later overturned by an appeals court. It also outlines Mann's account of the alleged rape and the defense's strategy, which highlighted the ongoing, complex relationship between Mann and Weinstein, her continued communication with him after the alleged incident, and her receipt of a settlement from a sexual misconduct fund.