Harvey Weinstein’s legal team is pushing for the dismissal of his sexual assault conviction, claiming that jurors were coerced into their guilty verdict. The motion to overturn the verdict was filed on October 7, supported by two juror affidavits detailing a tumultuous deliberation process marred by hostility and pressure tactics.
Weinstein’s defense asserts that the jurors’ behavior amounted to serious misconduct, compromising the fairness of the trial and, consequently, the validity of the verdict. The disgraced film producer’s initial conviction in October 2020 led to a 23-year prison sentence, which was later overturned in April 2024 due to procedural errors. A retrial in June 2025 resulted in a guilty verdict on one charge, while the jury remained deadlocked on another.
Jurors have come forward with accounts of intimidation and coercion within the deliberation room, describing instances of aggressive confrontations, accusations of bribery, and veiled threats. Some jurors admitted to changing their votes under duress to maintain peace among the group.
Allegations include claims of the presiding judge failing to address the harassment properly and a foreperson feeling pressured to alter their decision but being denied a mistrial request. Weinstein’s lawyers argue that the jury’s improper conduct tainted the deliberation process and rendered the final verdict unjust.
One juror revealed feeling threatened after voting not guilty, expressing concerns for personal safety and ultimately conforming to the majority’s decision. Weinstein, still facing sentencing for criminal sexual assault, awaits a decision on the verdict’s validity by December 22.
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