Polish model lied about Weinstein sex assault as part of cash-grab scheme to escape abusive ex: Harvey’s lawyer
The trial of Harvey Weinstein took an unexpected turn as his lawyer suggested that Polish model Kaja Sokola fabricated sexual assault claims against the former producer to secure a financial settlement and leave her abusive marriage. Sokola, now 39, allegedly received $475,000 from a victim compensation fund established for women who claimed to have been assaulted by Weinstein. She later settled with Disney, Miramax, and Weinstein’s brother for $3 million, enabling her to move to the US shortly after.
During the court proceedings, Sokola admitted to applying for a “U” visa for victims of crimes, with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office supporting her immigration application due to her testimony against Weinstein. The defense argued that Sokola’s abusive relationship with her ex-husband motivated her to fabricate the assault claims in order to escape the situation.
Sokola testified about three alleged incidents where Weinstein assaulted her, starting when she was just 16 years old. She claimed that Weinstein had touched her inappropriately and forced her to touch him during a meeting in 2002. Subsequent incidents in 2004 and 2006 were also detailed, with Sokola accusing Weinstein of groping her and orally raping her.
Despite the defense’s claims, the prosecutor dismissed them as far-fetched, and the judge instructed the jury to disregard certain lines of questioning that delved too deeply into Sokola’s personal life. Sokola emotionally recounted how Weinstein had shattered her dreams of a successful acting career by failing to deliver on promises to advance her in the industry.
Weinstein, who is facing charges related to the 2006 alleged assault against Sokola, had his previous conviction overturned last year. Sokola’s testimony marks the first time she has spoken out against Weinstein in court, unlike other alleged victims who testified in his previous trial. The movie producer has pleaded not guilty and could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted again. Sokola is expected to continue her testimony in the coming days as the trial unfolds.
