Ashley Judd Reacts to Harvey Weinstein's Rape Conviction Reversal

Actress Ashley Judd spoke out against the New York Court of Appeals' decision to overturn Harvey Weinstein's rape conviction, calling it a "profound disappointment."

Actress Ashley Judd, one of the first women to publicly accuse Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault, has expressed her disappointment and outrage over the New York Court of Appeals' decision to overturn his 2020 rape conviction.

In a press conference held shortly after the court's ruling was announced, Judd condemned the decision, stating, "This is a profound disappointment for survivors everywhere. It sends the message that powerful men can escape accountability for their crimes."

Ashley Judd Reacts to Harvey Weinstein's Rape Conviction Reversal

Judd, who accused Weinstein of sexual harassment and attempted rape in the 1990s, emphasized the impact such decisions have on victims. "It's a betrayal of justice," she said. "It's a betrayal of the public trust."

The court's decision, handed down in April 2023, found that the trial judge had erred in allowing prosecutors to call as witnesses women who had accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct unrelated to the charges he was facing. The court ruled that this testimony had unfairly prejudiced Weinstein's defense.

Ashley Judd Reacts to Harvey Weinstein's Rape Conviction Reversal

Judd argued that the decision ignored the reality of sexual assault, where victims often experience multiple incidents with the same perpetrator. "It's a common pattern of behavior," she said. "It's not just a one-off occurrence."

The actress expressed her concern that the ruling could embolden other potential predators. "It sends a chilling message to anyone who might be considering coming forward with allegations of sexual assault," she said. "It says that they will face an uphill battle and that their claims may not be taken seriously."

Ashley Judd Reacts to Harvey Weinstein's Rape Conviction Reversal

Judd called for continued support for victims and urged authorities to ensure that Weinstein is held accountable for his actions. "We must never give up the fight for justice," she said. "We must continue to stand with survivors and demand that those who commit these heinous crimes are punished."

Weinstein's rape conviction was overturned on a technicality, but Judd stressed that the underlying allegations remain. "He is still a predator," she said. "He is still a danger to women."

Ashley Judd Reacts to Harvey Weinstein's Rape Conviction Reversal

The actress urged the prosecution to pursue all legal avenues to secure Weinstein's conviction. "He must not be allowed to get away with this," she said. "He must face the consequences of his actions."

Judd's powerful statement resonated with many survivors and advocates who expressed their support and solidarity. Her words served as a reminder that the fight against sexual violence is far from over and that victims deserve justice.