Weinstein Faces New Trial in 2013 Rape Allegation After Judge Denies Dismissal Former film producer Harvey Weinstein will face a third trial in Manhattan after a judge rejected his request to dismiss a 2013 rape charge. Meanwhile, escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf threaten to disrupt oil supplies and impact gasoline prices, with a US warship, the USS Spruance, having recently intercepted an Iranian vessel attempting to evade a blockade. Elsewhere, an unrelated development involves the closure of an Apple store in San Diego, and in sports, the San Diego Padres secured a walk-off victory thanks to the heroics of Jackson Merrill. Harvey Weinstein, the once-powerful Hollywood mogul, appeared in Manhattan criminal court on Friday, April 17, 2026, where a judge ruled against his attempt to have a 2013 rape case dismissed. This decision paves the way for a third trial for the 73-year-old former movie producer, who has been a central figure in numerous high-profile sexual assault cases over the past decade, both in New York and Los Angeles. Weinstein vehemently denies all allegations of misconduct. Despite his persistent appeals against various convictions, he has already served six years of his sentence. The upcoming trial will involve the selection of a jury comprising seven men and five women, who will be tasked with determining his guilt or innocence in the alleged rape of a woman in a Manhattan hotel. This latest development underscores the protracted legal battles Weinstein has been engaged in, reflecting the ongoing scrutiny and consequences faced by individuals accused of such serious offenses. The broader geopolitical landscape also presented anxieties this week, as traffic and trepidation in the Persian Gulf could prevent gasoline prices from experiencing a swift decline. The volatile situation in the region, a critical artery for global oil transport, has the potential to significantly impact energy markets. Adding to the naval presence and regional concerns, the nearly new San Diego warship, the USS Spruance, was involved in an incident where it turned back an Iranian vessel that was attempting to evade a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. This encounter highlights the heightened naval activity and potential for friction in the strategic waterway. Further underscoring the operational demands on naval assets, the USS Spruance itself is slated for a major overhaul, estimated to cost at least $33.5 million, indicating the significant investment required to maintain modern naval capabilities. These developments in the Persian Gulf serve as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of international relations, energy security, and the substantial resources dedicated to maintaining stability in crucial maritime zones. In more localized news, a prominent technology retailer, Apple, announced the closure of one of its stores in San Diego County, scheduled for June. This business decision marks a change for the retail landscape in the area, a development that may impact local employment and consumer access to Apple products and services. On a more uplifting note within the city of San Diego, the local baseball team, the Padres, experienced a thrilling walk-off victory, with player Jackson Merrill playing a heroic role on two occasions to secure the win. This sports highlight offered a moment of triumph and excitement for the team and its fanbase, providing a positive counterpoint to the more serious and complex news emanating from the courtroom and international waters. The juxtaposition of these diverse stories—a high-profile criminal trial, international maritime tensions, a retail closure, and a dramatic sports win—illustrates the multifaceted nature of contemporary news, encompassing legal, political, economic, and cultural spheres