New York, NY – April 25, 2024 – In a decision sending shockwaves through the #MeToo movement, the New York Court of Appeals overturned Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 sex crimes conviction and ordered a new trial. The 4-3 ruling centered on the inclusion of testimonies from “prior bad acts” witnesses. Justices argued that this evidence, detailing past allegations against Weinstein, wasn’t necessary to prove the current charges and could have swayed the jury unfairly.

Weinstein, 72, was originally convicted of first-degree criminal sexual act and third-degree rape, charges stemming from encounters with two women. He has consistently denied all allegations of nonconsensual sexual activity. While the overturned conviction grants him a new trial in Manhattan with a new judge and prosecutor, it’s important to note that Weinstein remains behind bars due to a separate rape conviction in California. An appeal for that case is also pending.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, through spokesperson Emily Tuttle, vowed to retry the case. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to survivors of sexual assault,” Tuttle declared. This determination comes amidst concerns raised by the overturned conviction. Many advocates worry it could discourage victims from coming forward and dampen the momentum of the #MeToo movement.

The movement, ignited in 2017 by a wave of allegations against Weinstein, empowered countless women to speak out against sexual misconduct by powerful figures. However, its effectiveness in achieving legal consequences has been uneven. This ruling marks the second high-profile #MeToo case to be overturned on appeal, following the 2021 reversal of comedian Bill Cosby’s sexual assault conviction.

Weinstein’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, expressed his client’s “deep appreciation” for the overturned conviction. However, the future remains uncertain. A new trial with potentially different evidence and arguments awaits, while the California conviction adds another layer of complexity. This case continues to be closely watched, with significant implications for both Weinstein and the ongoing fight against sexual violence.