Judge declares mistrial in Weinstein rape retrial

A judge has declared a mistrial in Harvey Weinstein's rape retrial after the jury deadlocked for the third time in New York. The case centered on allegations that Weinstein raped aspiring actress Jessica Mann in a hotel room in 2013. The jury, which began deliberations on May 14, informed the court on Friday that they were unable to reach a unanimous verdict. Judge Curtis Farber instructed them to continue deliberating, but they soon returned with the same message, stating that no one was willing to change their stance. The jury was split 9-3 in favor of acquittal, according to one juror. Weinstein, who remains jailed on other charges, has consistently denied the allegations. Prosecutors, led by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, are now considering whether to pursue a fourth trial. Bragg expressed disappointment but respect for the jury system, stating that his office would consult with Mann and consider Weinstein's pending sentencing in another case. Weinstein's legal team argued that the outcome reflects public perception and prejudice, urging prosecutors to focus on other crimes. The mistrial concludes a month-long trial that received less media attention than Weinstein's previous court appearances. Earlier this year, Weinstein hired a new legal team, including high-profile criminal defense attorneys. The case has been closely watched as part of the #MeToo movement, with Weinstein previously convicted of other sex crimes in New York and California.