‘Cruel hoax’: Harvey Weinstein’s accusers urge US judge to reject ‘one-sided’ settlement offer – SBS News

Six women who accuse disgraced movie producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual abuse have urged a US judge to reject a $27.1 (AUD) million settlement deal.
The settlement announced last month would end litigation by New York Attorney General Letitia James and a separate class-action, and permit accusers to claim between $10,000 and $1.1 million each.
But in a Manhattan federal court filing, the six women said they would receive just $16.1 million after deducting legal fees and costs, with typical awards of just $14,000 to $28,000, while shielding the defendants’ insurers from big payouts.
They also complained that the accord “absolved” Weinstein, his brother Bob Weinstein and the board of liability, while setting aside another $21.8 million to help cover their defence costs.
The group of women said the settlement is “a cruel hoax” and among “the most one-sided and unfair class settlements in history.”
“The main winners … are Harvey Weinstein, Robert Weinstein, and the ultra-wealthy former directors of The Weinstein Co.”
James’ office and a lawyer for Weinstein did not respond to requests for comment. Gerald Maatman, a lawyer for the Weinstein Cos, declined to comment.
The settlement requires approval by US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein.
Weinstein, 68, is serving a 23-year prison term following his 24 February conviction for sexually assaulting a former production assistant and raping a one-time aspiring actress.
He is appealing, and still faces rape and sexual assault charges in Los Angeles.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

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