A US court sentenced Harvey Weinstein, the most famous American Hollywood producer, to 23 years in prison after being convicted of sexual assault and rape of more than 100 women, including famous actresses, in a case considered a victory for the #My2 movement, which encouraged women to expose influential harassment.
Judgment was passed in the Manhattan Criminal Court by Judge James Burke, while Weinstein's attorney, Donna Rotono, condemned the punishment and described it as a "blatant" and "coward" punishment saying that the judge and jury "succumbed" to the pressure of the #Me2To movement.
Jodien Engelmeier, Weinstein's spokesman, said in an email that Weinstein was transferred to Rikers Island Prison in New York after the verdict was pronounced. Hours later, he was transferred to Manhattan's Bellevy Hospital due to "persistent heart problems and chest pain".
A jury found on February 24 that Einstein, who was once one of Hollywood's most powerful men, was guilty of sexual assault on former production assistant Mimi Halley and raping former rising actress Jessica Mann. The length of the sentence means that Einstein may spend the rest of his life in prison, as he is 67 and has health problems. Defense attorneys had called for the lowest possible penalty, which is five years imprisonment.
Prosecutors described Einstein as a predatory wolf who placed his nets around the women with his promises, but opened the door for work in Hollywood, lured them into rooms in hotels or private apartments, and then forcibly assaulted them. More than 100 women, including famous actresses, and Einstein have been accused of sexual misconduct for decades. Weinstein denied this and said that any relationship she had with a woman was consensual. Weinstein could face the maximum penalty, which is 29 years in prison. Manhattan prosecutor Sirus Vance told reporters that the judge "sent a message" to potential perpetrators.