California sexual assault and rape trial: Harvey Weinstein pleads not guilty

Ex-movie mogul Harvey Weinstein, who is currently serving a 23-year prison sentence, was appearing in Los Angeles court for the first time.

Harvey Weinstein is accused in California of rape and sexual assault on five women.

The ex-all-powerful Hollywood producer faces up to 140 years in prison, in addition to his New York conviction.

He was presented to the judge this Wednesday morning.

Alongside his lawyer, Mr. Mark Werksma, he appeared silent and weakened in his wheelchair, wearing a brown jumpsuit.

He pleaded not guilty to 11 charges of rape and assault against him.

"The conviction is registered," Judge Sergio Tapia said after a lawyer spoke on behalf of Harvey Weinstein.

"Thank you very much," Harvey Weinstein replied only when Judge Sergio Tapia wished him "good luck".

Harvey Weinstein must answer 5 charges

Harvey Weinstein, whose fall is seen as a major victory for the #MeToo movement, had been serving a 23-year prison sentence since 2020 for sexual assault and rape in New York.

He was transferred on Tuesday to Los Angeles, a city where he once had great influence, to answer the new charges.

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In California, Harvey Weinstein is notably accused of having raped a female Italian model in a hotel in Beverley Hills in February 2013, then of having sexually assaulted Lauren Young, an aspiring actress, in the bathroom of another hotel. .

He has always denied the facts, in New York and Los Angeles, claiming his accusers consented.

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The indictment against Harvey Weinstein has been made public by the judge.

Harvey Weinstein faces several charges including rape, oral rape, sexual violence and penetration by use of force.

The facts cover a period from 2004 to 2013. "Anyone who abuses their power and influence to attack others will be brought to justice," said Los Angeles prosecutor George Gascon.

In early April, Harvey Weinstein formally appealed his conviction for rape and sexual assault in New York, which was imposed on him in March 2020 after a resounding trial for victims of the #MeToo movement.

In total, nearly 90 women have accused Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment or assault.