‘How could this happen in America?’ – Weinstein Reacts to Conviction
Harvey Weinstein, former powerhouse producer has been convicted of third-degree rape and sexual assault. This is a tremendous victory for the #MeToo movement and was a long time coming.
However, Weinstein’s attorney says the former mogul was stunned by the guilty verdict. “The words he said over and over again to me is, ‘I’m innocent, I’m innocent, I’m innocent. How could this happen in America?’” Weinstein’s attorney Arthur Aidala told Variety and other reporters outside the courthouse shortly after the verdict on Monday.
The jury found Weinstein guilty of committing a criminal sexual act and third-degree rape. But the jury acquitted him of two counts of predatory sexual assault.
The verdict undoubtedly shocked Weinstein; that contrary to the capitalist American way, his expensive lawyers and bribes could not buy him out of justice. Justice James Burke remanded Weinstein, ordering his arrest. His sentencing is on March 11.
Aidala tells Variety that Weinstein’s legal team was expecting the conviction; even though Weinstein’s lead attorney, Donna Rotunno, asked the judge to let Weinstein remain free on bond pending the sentencing.
Rotunno said Weinstein takes a lot of medication and underwent “unsuccessful” back surgery and has impaired vision. “He is currently taking shots in his eyes so he does not go blind,” Rotunno said. “Judge, the jury found him not guilty of the most serious charges,” she added.
The judge recommended transporting him to the infirmary, and Aidala hopes he will serve his sentence at Rikers Island, which has medical facilities.
