Full Breakdown
Harvey Weinstein's Rape Retrial Paused as Defendant Experiences Chest Pains
5/14/2026, 2:43:54 AM
Jury Deliberations Interrupted by Defendant’s Health Issue
On May 13, 2026, jurors began deliberating in the New York rape retrial of former film producer Harvey Weinstein. About four hours into closed-door discussion, defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo informed Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Curtis Farber that Weinstein was experiencing chest pains. The judge sent the jury home early, noting only “unforeseen reasons.” Jurors had asked to re-hear a portion of accuser Jessica Mann’s testimony and to receive a prosecution-prepared PowerPoint timeline of emails and other evidence. The court scheduled delivery of those materials for the following day.
Background and Context
Weinstein has been incarcerated since 2020 after convictions in New York and California for sexual assault. An appeals court overturned his 2020 New York conviction, prompting a retrial on a third-degree rape charge. The case centers on Jessica Mann, a 40-year-old hairstylist who says Weinstein raped her in a Manhattan hotel on March 18, 2013 after she repeatedly said no. Her testimony helped spark the #MeToo movement. Weinstein faces up to 25 years for an assault conviction and an additional 16 years in California.
Official Statements and Responses
Judge Curtis Farber ordered jurors to reconvene after receiving the requested evidence, noting the pause was for “unforeseen reasons.” Marc Agnifilo said he was “very hesitant to waive my client’s appearance during a critical moment,” stressing Weinstein’s wish to be present despite chest pains. Prosecutors made no public comment. Weinstein described his health as a “slow march to my death.”
Criticism and Opposition
Survivor-advocacy groups warned that the health-related pause could further delay justice for Mann and other victims. Legal commentators expressed concern that medical claims might be leveraged to affect trial momentum, though no formal objections have been filed.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The Associated Press corrected an earlier version that implied Weinstein left the courtroom, clarifying he was not present. The New York Post reported the judge said Weinstein was in custody and “not feeling well.” Weinstein’s exact location during the chest pains and the specifics of his condition have not been disclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He wants to be here, but he’s having chest pains,” — Marc Agnifilo, defense attorney
- “unforeseen reasons” — Judge Curtis Farber
- “Weinsteinhas saidhe “acted wrongly” but never assaulted anyone.” — Harvey Weinstein
- “slow march to my death.” — Harvey Weinstein
- “ Agnifilo said he was “very hesitant to waive my client’s appearance” during a “critical” moment in the case.” — Marc Agnifilo
What’s Next: Continuing Deliberations
Jurors will receive Mann’s testimony excerpt and the prosecution timeline on Thursday and will resume deliberations. The verdict will decide if Weinstein receives an additional sentence for third-degree rape, potentially extending his incarceration.
