Harvey Weinstein's retrial in New York on a rape charge ended in a mistrial on Friday after the jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict. The jury, which was majority male, had been deliberating for three days before informing Judge Curtis Farber that they could not agree on a decision regarding the charge that Weinstein raped hairstylist and actor Jessica Mann in 2013.
The mistrial marks the third time a jury has been unable to decide on this specific charge. Weinstein's 2020 conviction in New York, which involved Mann and another accuser, was overturned on appeal. A retrial last year also ended in a deadlock on the Mann charge, leading to the current proceedings.
Weinstein, 74, remains incarcerated at Rikers Island jail complex, having been convicted of other sex crimes in New York and California. He has denied assault, stating he 'acted wrongly' but never assaulted anyone. During the trial, Mann testified that she had consensual encounters with Weinstein but that the 2013 incident was unwanted after she repeatedly said no. Weinstein's lawyers argued the encounter was consensual, noting Mann continued to see him afterward.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg expressed disappointment but respected the jury's decision, thanking them for their service. He praised Mann's bravery, stating, 'For nearly a decade, Jessica Mann has fought for justice... Her perseverance and bravery are inspiring.' Bragg said his office would consider next steps in consultation with Mann and in light of Weinstein's pending sentencing for a separate conviction involving Miriam Haley.
During jury deliberations, Weinstein reported chest pains in court on Wednesday and was taken to hospital, but returned to court on Thursday. He has a history of health issues, including heart trouble, since his original conviction.
