Powerful Men Recently Accused of Sexual Assault

In the past few months of fall 2017, multitudes of women and men have emerged from the woodwork to accuse powerful men of sexual assault. Actors, directors, and politicians have all been met with multiple victims ready to speak out against them.

In early October, film producer and former studio executive Harvey Weinstein was accused by multiple women of sexual assault and harassment. Over 100 accusers came forward to tell their stories about Weinstein, including actresses Ashley Judd, Rose McGowan, Asia Argento, Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Cara Delevingne, and Kate Beckinsale. These accusations span from the 1970s to present day, documenting Weinstein’s 40-year career harassing women.

Four women have accused former president of the United States, George H.W. Bush, of sexual harassment. Actor Kevin Spacey had been accused of predatory behavior and sexual assault towards young men, with multiple victims coming forward. Comedian Louis C.K. has been accused of sexual harassment by at least five women. More than 10 women have accused former political director of ABC News, Mark Halperin, of sexual harassment and assault. A top editor at NPR, Michael Oreskes, was placed on leave after two female journalists came forward about sexual harassment.

Roy Moore, the Alabama Republican nominee for U.S. Senator, has garnered multiple accusations of harassment and assault. One victim, Beverly Young Nelson, was 15 when she met Moore waiting tables in Alabama. Moore signed her yearbook “Love, Roy Moore” and assaulted her in his car shortly after she turned 16.

Amidst all the allegations, many of these powerful men are being shamed and fired from positions of power. Victims are being praised for their bravery in coming forward and sharing their stories. Despite the tragic circumstances, it appears that justice is finally being served. For too long, women have kept quiet about sexual harassment and assault, fearing disbelief and even shaming.

Let us not forget our own president, Donald Trump, has been accused of multiple instances of harassment and assault. In May 2016, the New York Times published two women’s stories of nonconsensual sexual encounters with Trump. Later that year, an “Access Hollywood” tape made the rounds, a recording of a 2005 conversation in which Trump openly admitted- even bragged- about committing sexual assault. By October 2016, 20 women spoke out and described Trump’s sexual misconduct. Several former Miss USA and Miss Teen USA contestants have revealed that Trump would often walk into dressing rooms with contestants were getting dressed. He was accused of doing this in 1997, 2000, 2001, and 2006.

Sex crimes are among the most severely punished in the state of Florida. Convictions result in mandatory registration as a sex offender. However, a false accusation of sexual assault or harassment can be terrifying. At Pallegar Law, P.A., we represent individuals charged with sex crimes, and are always fighting to protect your rights. If you or someone you know has been charged with a sex crime, contact a skilled Tampa criminal defense attorney at Pallegar Law P.A. Call 813-444-3912 for a free consultation.