Harvey Weinstein indicted on new sex charges in Manhattan

Harvey Weinstein has been indicted on new sex crimes charges in New York as he prepares for a retrial following the overturning of his previous rape conviction. The indictment, which remains sealed, is based on evidence presented to a grand jury regarding multiple allegations dating back to the mid-2000s. Prosecutors have indicated that several accusers are now willing to testify, which could significantly impact the upcoming trial. Weinstein, currently recovering from heart surgery, was not present at the court hearing where the indictment was announced. The new charges come after a ruling by New York's highest court that vacated Weinstein's 2020 conviction, citing unfair testimony from other accusers that was not part of the original case. His legal team argues that the prosecution is attempting to strengthen their case with these additional allegations. Meanwhile, Weinstein's lawyers are fighting to keep him at Bellevue Hospital rather than transferring him back to Rikers Island, citing health concerns and the potential for a miscarriage of justice if his health deteriorates. In a related development, prosecutors in the UK have decided not to pursue indecent assault charges against Weinstein. This decision follows his conviction in Los Angeles in 2022 for another rape, for which he is serving a 16-year sentence. His legal team has appealed that conviction, claiming he did not receive a fair trial. As the legal proceedings unfold, Weinstein's case continues to draw significant public and media attention, reflecting the ongoing impact of the #MeToo movement and the complexities surrounding sexual assault allegations in the entertainment industry.