Harvey Weinstein was charged on Monday in Los Angeles with rape and sexual assault in relation to two separate incidents over a two -day period in 2013 .

The charges against the disgraced movie mogul came just as his high-profile sex crimes trial opened in New York .

According to the charge sheet , Weinstein on February 18, 2013 , allegedly went to a hotel in the Los Angeles area and raped a woman after pushing his way into her hotel .

The next day , he allegedly assaulted a woman at a hotel suite in Beverly Hills .

“ We believe the evidence will show that the defendant used his power and influence to gain access to his victims and then commit violent crimes against them , ” Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey said in a statement .

“ I want to commend the victims who have come forward and bravely recounted what happened to them , ” she added . “ It is my hope that all victims of sexual violence find strength and healing as they move forward. ”

( AFP)

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