Judge Curtis Farber declared a mistrial on May 15, 2026 [2], after a jury failed to reach a unanimous verdict in Harvey Weinstein's rape retrial [1].

The deadlock represents a significant setback for prosecutors in this third rape trial [4], as it leaves the legal status of these specific allegations unresolved. The outcome underscores the difficulty of securing convictions in high-profile sexual assault cases when jury members disagree on witness reliability.

The proceedings took place at the New York State Supreme Court in New York City [1]. According to reports, the deadlock emerged after the jury deliberated for two days [4], though other accounts indicate the impasse became clear a few hours into the third day of deliberations [2].

Jurors cited doubts regarding the credibility of accuser Jessica Mann as a primary reason for their inability to reach a consensus [1]. The jury noted contradictions in Mann's statements during the trial, which prevented the group from achieving the unanimity required for a criminal conviction [2].

Judge Farber presided over the case [4]. The mistrial means that the current jury has been dismissed without reaching a verdict on the charges. This follows a complex legal history for Weinstein, whose previous convictions have been subject to intense scrutiny and appellate challenges.

Legal representatives for the prosecution must now decide whether to seek a new trial with a different jury, or pursue other legal avenues. The defense has highlighted the jurors' doubts as evidence of the weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

“Judge Curtis Farber declared a mistrial on May 15, 2026”

This mistrial highlights the high evidentiary bar in New York's criminal courts, where a single dissenting juror can prevent a conviction. By failing to reach a verdict due to credibility concerns regarding the accuser, the court has demonstrated how inconsistencies in testimony can create reasonable doubt, potentially complicating future attempts by the state to prosecute similar charges against Weinstein.