Harvey Weinstein found guilty of rape and sexual assault; local experts comment on case

SANTA MARIA, Calif.-The once powerful Hollywood mogul was led off in handcuffs accused of rape and sexual assault against two women on Monday. His conviction, fueled by the #MeToo movement can hold up to 29 years in prison. 67-year-old Weinstein claimed the accuser's sexual contact with him was consensual and they did so in hopes of advancing their hopeful dreams of making it in Hollywood.
A jury found his claims to be false though they did deadlock on two predatory sexual assault counts.

The jury acquitted Weinstein of first-degree rape, which requires the use of force or the threat of it, but found him guilty of third-degree rape, which involves a lack of consent.

Some of his accusers testified that after he assaulted or rapped them they continued contact with Weinstein, and in some cases even had sexual contact with him again.

Local sexual assault prevention experts spoke with News Channel 12 on victim trauma and how some rape victims can be assaulted but still seek contact with their accusers.
Get the full story tonight at 5pm and 6pm on News Channel 12.