New Harvey Weinstein accuser unveiled as rape retrial opens in NYC

he retrial of , a pivotal moment for the , kicked off with opening statements on April 23 in Manhattan criminal court, and a new accuser's identity was unveiled. , a former Polish model and actress, was named as the third woman by the disgraced Hollywood mogul, joining from the 2020 trial. Sokola, previously known as , claims Weinstein forcibly performed oral sex on her in a Manhattan hotel in 2006, a charge added after his initial conviction was overturned.

The revelation, reported by , has reignited discussions about accountability in Hollywood. Prosecutor painted a stark picture, telling jurors, " " She detailed how Weinstein allegedly lured women with career promises, only to assault them. Sokola, who was 16 during an earlier 2002 incident with Weinstein not charged in this trial, met him again in 2006 in through his referral.



" '" Lucey said, recounting Sokola's hotel room encounter. Sokola's attorney, Lindsay Goldbrum, called the retrial a " ." New accuser takes center stage in former movie mogul's retrial Weinstein's attorney, , countered that the encounters were consensual, arguing, " .

" He claimed the women had "mutually beneficial" relationships with Weinstein, who "had the key" to Hollywood's gates. Weinstein, 73, wheeled into court due to , has pleaded not guilty to one rape count and two criminal sexual act counts. He's serving a 16-year California sentence and faces a diverse jury of , a shift from the 2020 panel.

Sokola's history with Weinstein includes a 2019 civil lawsuit against him, his brother Bob, Disney, and Miramax, settled for $3 million. Her testimony, alongside Mann's rape allegation from 2013 and Haley's 2006 assault claim, will anchor the prosecution's case, expected to last six weeks with 25 witnesses. " " Lucey said, emphasizing his power to make or break careers.

The trial, quieter than the 2020 media frenzy, still carries weight, with Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg present and Weinstein housed at Bellevue Hospital for medical reasons. Fans on X are split, some praising Sokola's bravery, others questioning the timing of her claims..