A federal judge in Manhattan on Tuesday rejected Harvey Weinstein’s request to delay deposition in a civil lawsuit by women who accused the imprisoned movie producer of sexual abuse and workplace harassment.
Weinstein, 68, had argued that his poor health made giving a deposition “practically impossible,” and put him at “severe risk” of self-incrimination because of pending criminal charges in Los Angeles.
US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, however, said Weinstein did not provide medical support for his health claims, and that it was unclear when Weinstein’s constitutional right against self-incrimination might no longer be a concern.
“In balance, plaintiffs have suffered injuries from defendant’s conduct, which occurred many years ago, and they are entitled to vindicate their rights efficiently,” Hellerstein wrote. “I find that a stay is unnecessary. Whether Weinstein invokes the Fifth Amendment or not is his choice.”
Imran Ansari, a lawyer for Weinstein, said in an email that Weinstein’s poor health “frustrates” his ability to defend himself, and invoking the Fifth Amendment because of the criminal case could hurt Weinstein’s defense in the civil case. Lawyers for Weinstein’s accuser did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The class-action case also accused Weinstein, his brother Bob Weinstein and their bankrupt Weinstein Co of maintaining a hostile work environment.
In seeking a delay, Weinstein’s lawyers said on Nov 19 that their client suffered from diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, sleep apnea, anemia, hypertension and other ailments, though he had not contracted Covid-19.
Weinstein is appealing his February 2020 conviction and 23-year prison term for sexual assault and rape.
He faces 11 felony charges in Los Angeles, including rape and sexual battery, pending extradition that is now on hold. Weinstein has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone.
Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.
1725612926-0/Tribune-Pic-(8)1725612926-0-165x106.webp "article")
1730355716-0/Copy-of-Untitled-(59)1730355716-0-270x192.webp "three tortured brooding period drama heroes to swoon over")
1730276684-0/Copy-of-Untitled-(55)1730276684-0-270x192.webp "a potterhead s plea ditch lupin s moustache and make sirius cool")
1730095495-1/WhatsApp-Image-2024-10-28-at-11-04-18-(1)1730095495-1-270x192.webp "witches enchanting their way into the 2000s")
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ