The New York City Police Department is reportedly prepared to arrest accused serial abuser Harvey Weinstein for felony sexual assault, but is waiting for the go-ahead from the Manhattan District Attorney.
The Daily Beast reports a senior police official said the NYPD “is ready to go” with the apprehension of the Hollywood producer, who has been accused by a myriad of women of sexual abuse spanning decades.
Further police sources informed the publication the NYPD is specifically investigating five allegations made against Weinstein.
Separately, Chief of Detectives Robert Boyce told the media the NYPD investigation into Weinstein was “going very, very well,” but that further questions should be directed to the DA Cyrus Vance.
Vance’s office declined to comment to The Daily Beast on the matter.
Earlier, the DA’s office had declined to move forward with actress Ambra Battilana Gutierrez‘ case against Weinstein, citing a lack of evidence.
“After analyzing the available evidence, including multiple interviews with both parties, a criminal charge is not supported,” the DA’s office said at the time.
Investigations are ongoing in Los Angeles and London. The Los Angeles Police Department has already submitted several cases to the L.A. County District Attorney’s office for potential charges.
If the cases move forward as expected, professional banishment may not be the extent of Weinstein’s punishment.
If you would like to talk to a counsellor about sexual misconduct, give the people over at 1800 RESPECT a call on 1800 737 732.
