Press Article
Former Model Testifies Against Weinstein in #MeToo Retrial
By Michael R. Sisak and Jennifer Peltz, Associated Press
NEW YORK — In a gripping testimony at Harvey Weinstein’s retrial, former model Kaja Sokola recounted how she was sexually assaulted by the disgraced producer when she was just 16. Describing the incident as the most horrifying experience of her life, Sokola revealed that Weinstein assaulted her in a Manhattan apartment in 2002, instructing her to remove her clothing while leveraging her dreams of becoming an actress.
Sokola’s emotional testimony detailed how, following the assault, Weinstein warned her to keep quiet, boasting of connections that could help launch her Hollywood career. Despite not being charged with the earlier assault, her allegations resurfaced in the context of Weinstein’s current trial, where he faces charges of forcibly performing oral sex on her years later.
Weinstein, now 73, has pleaded not guilty, with his lawyers claiming the encounters were consensual. Prosecutors argue that he exploited his power in the film industry to prey on vulnerable women. The courtroom drama continues as Sokola’s testimony adds weight to the case against him, reigniting discussions around the #MeToo movement and the exploitation of women in Hollywood.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
