Harvey Weinstein can be questioned in accusers’ civil lawsuit, judge rules

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.”

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.

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 for rape and sexual battery, pending extradition that is now on hold. Weinstein has denied having non-consensual sex with anyone.

The Weinstein case also got movements against Gender-Based Violence in South Africa commenting.

Director of Rise Up Against Gender-Based Violence Vanita Daniels says Weinstein’s sentencing brought hope to #MeToo Movement that sprang up to help survivors of sexual violence: