- Nine jurors selected from 140 initial candidates this week
- Prosecutors allege assaults against three women between 2006-2013
- 2023 conviction reversal forces retrial under modified charges
- 12 jurors + 6 alternates needed for 6-week proceeding
Manhattan Supreme Court entered its third day of juror vetting Thursday as Harvey Weinstein's legal team and prosecutors clash over impartiality concerns. The disgraced film producer's retrial marks a pivotal test for #MeToo era prosecutions following last year's appellate court decision that overturned his initial 23-year sentence.
Recent jury selection data reveals systemic challenges: 42% of initial prospects cited scheduling conflicts, while 19% expressed bias concerns during preliminary questioning. Legal analysts note the defense's heightened scrutiny of jurors' social media histories - a tactic refined since the 2020 trial.
Comparative analysis shows New York's juror attrition rate (63%) exceeds Los Angeles' 58% average for high-profile sexual assault cases. This regional disparity stems from Manhattan's unique voir dire protocols allowing extended attorney questioning compared to California's time-limited approach.
The prosecution's modified evidence strategy now emphasizes timeline corroboration through hotel keycard records and witness employment contracts. Forensic psychiatrist Dr. Emily Torres explains: Digital breadcrumbs provide objective anchors that help jurors navigate complex consent arguments.
Weinstein's medical team continues advocating for wheelchair access accommodations, citing ongoing cardiovascular issues. Courtroom observers report increased security measures following last week's attempted disruption by a victims' rights activist.
With testimony scheduled to begin June 3, legal experts predict this retrial could redefine evidentiary standards for historical assault cases. Columbia Law professor Mark Harris notes: The outcome may influence 23 pending state bills about statute of limitations extensions.
