Harvey Weinstein, the former Hollywood producer whose abuse allegations helped catalyze the #MeToo movement, was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Wednesday for sexually assaulting Miriam Haley, a former production assistant. The conviction stems from an incident in 2006 at Weinstein’s Manhattan apartment.

Weinstein, 74, was found guilty in June 2025 of a first-degree criminal sexual act related to the assault on Haley, following a retrial after his original 2020 conviction was overturned by New York’s highest court in 2024. The initial conviction had resulted in a 23-year sentence, which was vacated due to procedural concerns in the initial trial. At the retrial, jurors acquitted Weinstein of assaulting former model Kaja Sokola and deadlocked on rape charges involving actress Jessica Mann, prompting prosecutors to drop those allegations without pursuing another trial.

During the sentencing hearing, Weinstein, appearing in a wheelchair amid health issues, addressed the court and pleaded for leniency, stating, “I am not a violent man, have some mercy,” while apologizing to those he may have hurt but maintaining his innocence. His remarks were met with audible disapproval from those present, including Haley and supporters such as Mann and Sokola.

Judge Curtis Farber condemned Weinstein as a “sexual predator” who had squandered his once-prominent legacy by committing the assault, emphasizing that he had failed to take true responsibility for his actions. Prosecutors had recommended a 20-year sentence, while Weinstein’s defense warned that a lengthy prison term could result in his death behind bars.

Following the sentencing, Miriam Haley described the 15-year term as fair and expressed relief at the outcome. She recounted the lasting trauma she experienced, saying she carries a “life sentence” in the form of post-traumatic stress disorder and highlighted how Weinstein abused his power in their professional relationship.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg praised Haley’s testimony as “powerful, moving and eloquent” and commended the bravery exhibited by all survivors who came forward during the prolonged legal proceedings.

Weinstein’s spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer, stated that Weinstein plans to appeal the latest conviction and sentence, arguing that his punishment is disproportionate and influenced by his notoriety rather than the specific offenses.

In addition to the New York case, Weinstein is awaiting resentencing in California for a 2013 rape and assault conviction. That appeal court upheld his conviction earlier this year but vacated the 16-year sentence.

This latest sentencing marks another chapter in a legal saga spanning more than half a decade, highlighting ongoing efforts to hold powerful individuals accountable for sexual misconduct while navigating complex judicial processes.