The New York Court of Appeals overturned the 2020 rape conviction of Harvey Weinstein Thursday and called for a new trial, in a stunning development to the historic case. The disgraced Hollywood mogul was sentenced to 23 years in prison after his 2020 conviction. But the appeals court cited the improper use of what’s known as “prior bad acts” witnesses. In this case, that refers to survivors of Weinstein that testified about their assaults even though they were not part of the case being tried. Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, addressed the news yesterday.

Tarana Burke: “We are devastated for the survivors who are connected to this case and the survivors who had found some solace, some solace and catharsis, in the original verdict around Harvey Weinstein. …. We also need to understand that the legal system has never served survivors in this country. Carceral solutions won’t save us.”

Harvey Weinstein’s 16-year sentence for sexual crimes committed in California is not affected by yesterday’s ruling, though Weinstein is expected to appeal that conviction next. At least 87 survivors have accused Weinstein of rape or sexual misconduct.