Actress Rosie Perez confirms account of Harvey Weinstein assault
Rosie Perez arrives at New York City Criminal Court for the continuation of Harvey Weinstein's trial. Photo: Jeenah Moon/Getty Images
Actress Rosie Perez testified at Harvey Weinstein's trial Friday, confirming that fellow screen star Annabella Sciorra told her in 1993 she was raped by the then-Hollywood mogul, AP reports.
The big picture: Sciorra recounted her sexual assault at the trial Thursday. Perez told the jury Sciorra called her multiple times about her experience and him harassing her.
Why it matters: Weinstein's lawyers argued Perez shouldn’t be allowed to testify, but Judge James Burke decided to allow it.
- When Sciorra called her the first time in 1993, Perez remembered saying, "He’s the one that raped you," as they both started crying.
- Perez asked her to got to the police. “I can’t — he’d destroy me," Sciorra responded.
- One of Weinstein's lawyers Damon Cheronis asked Perez why she didn’t go to police herself, she responded “because I was being respectful."
What to watch: Weinstein's case will continue before a jury of seven men and five women. He could face a life sentence if convicted.
Go deeper: Global #MeToo movement has resulted in 6 convictions, 5 charges of influential figures