Harvey Weinstein Indicted on Additional Charges, Could Face Life in Prison
Disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein has been indicted on additional sex crimes charges, following his original arrest back in May.
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office released a statement on Monday announcing the new charges, which include another count of criminal sexual act in the first degree, as well as two counts of predatory sexual assault. The latter charge, a Class A-II felony, carries a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Weinstein was previously charged with one count of criminal sexual act in the first degree, and first- and third-degree rape, in connection with assaults that prosecutors say occurred in 2004 and 2013. The new criminal sexual act charge stems from a third incident in 2006.
In a press release, Manhattan D.A. Cyrus R. Vance Jr. called Weinstein's alleged crimes "some of the most serious sexual offenses that exist," and encouraged additional victims to come forward. Vance's entire statement said:
“A Manhattan Grand Jury has now indicted Harvey Weinstein on some of the most serious sexual offenses that exist under New York’s Penal Law,” said District Attorney Vance. “This indictment is the result of the extraordinary courage exhibited by the survivors who have come forward. Our investigation continues. If you are a survivor of the predatory abuse with which Mr. Weinstein is charged, there is still time to pursue justice. Please call us at 212-335-9373.”
Weinstein pleaded not guilty to his previous charges last month. It's unclear when he is next due in court.
The former producer, who has been accused of sexual harassment and assault by dozens of women, has previously denied all allegations of non-consensual sexual activity.
[via: Manhattan District Attorney]