Prosecutors conclude their case in Harvey Weinstein’s NYC sexual assault retrial.

Manhattan prosecutors are nearing the conclusion of their case in the sexual assault retrial of Harvey Weinstein, with the final witness being a clinical psychologist who provided insights into the psychological reactions of individuals following incidents of sexual assault. As the trial enters its sixth week, prosecutors are expected to rest their case on Wednesday.

This retrial has involved testimonies from three women who allege that Weinstein sexually assaulted them during the 2000s and 2010s. Among the witnesses were actress Jessica Mann and former television production assistant Miriam Haley, both of whom previously testified in Weinstein’s 2020 New York Supreme Court trial. That trial resulted in a guilty verdict, which was overturned by the state’s highest court last year.

Mann and Haley returned to the courtroom to recount their harrowing experiences, with Mann detailing an extended relationship with Weinstein that included compliments and consensual encounters alongside the alleged sexual assault. Haley similarly recounted her own experience of being raped by Weinstein in 2006. Another witness, Polish model Kaja Sokola, testified that Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in 2006, an incident that followed earlier abuse when she was a teenager.

Weinstein’s defense team has aggressively challenged the credibility of the accusers, contending that they manipulated Weinstein and exploited the “casting couch” dynamics to advance their careers. They also allege that the accusers sought financial gain following the emergence of the #MeToo movement, which highlighted Weinstein’s alleged serial sexual harassment.

On Tuesday, clinical psychologist Lisa Rocchio addressed the jury about the complex behaviors often exhibited by sexual assault survivors. Rocchio explained that it is not uncommon for victims to maintain contact with their abusers or to continue relationships, sometimes as a coping mechanism aimed at restoring a sense of normalcy. She also discussed the psychological phenomenon of dissociation, where victims may downplay or minimize their experiences—common responses as a means of coping with trauma.

Weinstein’s legal team is expected to cross-examine Rocchio on Wednesday before introducing their own witnesses. As the defense prepares to present its case, it remains uncertain whether Weinstein himself will testify.

The outcome of this trial brings significant implications not only for Weinstein but also within a wider societal context as discussions around sexual assault and consent continue to evolve.

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