Weinstein Trial Hits Snags as Jury Reports Discontent

MANHATTAN, June 9, 2025 — The Harvey Weinstein trial experienced tension on Monday as the jury foreperson expressed concerns over the conduct of some jurors during deliberations.

According to a transcript of a closed-door meeting with Judge Curtis Farber, the foreperson said some jurors were urging others to reconsider their positions, discussing Weinstein’s past rather than focusing strictly on the charges presented in court. “I feel like they are attacking, talking together, fighting together. I don’t like it,” the foreperson noted.

Weinstein, 73, is facing charges including two counts of committing a criminal sex act and one count of rape. He has pleaded not guilty. The jury began deliberating on Thursday after a lengthy trial that included testimony from three accusers who allege Weinstein assaulted them.

Defense attorney Arthur Aidala requested a mistrial, arguing that the discussions were unfair and strayed from the evidence presented during the trial. “People are considering things that were not brought into this trial as evidence,” Aidala said.

However, prosecutor Matthew Colangelo countered that some aspects of Weinstein’s past, including additional allegations of unwanted sexual encounters, were permissible as evidence. Judge Farber denied the mistrial motion but reminded the jurors to consider only the evidence from the trial.

During deliberations, the jury requested clarification on definitions like reasonable doubt, indicating they may not be close to a verdict. The foreperson, who previously sought to address the judge privately, emphasized that decisions should focus on the alleged crimes without factoring in Weinstein’s history.

The jury had faced communication challenges earlier as one juror attempted to leave, citing disruptive behavior among others. The juror described the atmosphere as “playground stuff,” leading to further scrutiny of the jury’s dynamics.

As the trial unfolds, jurors have requested to review testimonies again, reflecting their efforts to fully understand the case. They expressed a desire to receive additional materials and even asked for coffee during deliberations, although Judge Farber informed them that they could not have food or drinks while working.

The trial continues as the jury works toward a verdict in a case that has garnered significant public attention due to its connection to the #MeToo movement. Weinstein, an Oscar-winning producer, was previously convicted in New York in 2020 on related charges, a verdict that marked a pivotal moment in the fight against sexual misconduct in Hollywood.