Disgraced filmmaker Harvey Weinstein was indicted for rape in Los Angeles on the same day that his trial on other sexual assault charges began in New York.
Prosecutors in Los Angeles have charged Weinstein, 67, with forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, sexual penetration by use of force, and sexual battery by restraint.
“We believe the evidence will show that the defendant used his power and influence to gain access to his victims and then commit crimes against them,” District Attorney Jackie Lacey said in a statement. “I want to commend the victims who have come forward and bravely recounted what happened to them.
“It is my hope that all victims of sexual violence find strength and healing as they move forward,” she added.
Monday’s charges stem from two separate incidents during a two-day window back in 2013.
Weinstein is also accused of rape in New York, where jury selection for his trial is slated to begin on Tuesday. He faces five felony charges from two women, although dozens more have accused him of sexual misconduct over the years. Despite the allegations, he has claimed that he is innocent.
Prosecutors in California are asking for bail to be set at $5 million.
[Also read: Ricky Gervais blasts Hollywood for not ‘seeing a thing’ ahead of Weinstein trial]
