Trial of 'Scrubs' Producer Eric Weinberg Begins With Display of Explicit Photos
Prosecutors presented sexually explicit images taken by the producer of his accusers during opening arguments in the Los Angeles trial.
Sexually explicit photographs taken by former "Scrubs" producer Eric Weinberg were presented in court on the opening day of his trial, where six women allege he sexually assaulted them. The images, which depicted the accusers in various states of undress, were shown to the jury as prosecutors began detailing their case.
Weinberg, 66, allegedly invited women to his Los Feliz home between 2014 and 2019, photographing them in different areas of the house, including the backyard, pool, and bedroom. His defense attorney, Phillip Cohen, told the jury, "You're seeing what he's seeing," as the explicit photos were displayed.
Prosecutors argued that some photos, like those of a woman named Kyra taken in 2014, showed her smiling shortly after an alleged assault. They presented this as evidence of nervousness, with the prosecution stating Kyra is known to smile when she is "nervous." Another set of images showed a woman identified as "Johanna" with Weinberg's hand around her neck on March 23, 2017. Prosecutors claimed that during this photoshoot, after initial "tasteful nude photographs," Weinberg's demeanor changed, with his eyes described as "predator eyes" when he commented on her breasts.
Conversely, the defense suggested consensual encounters, citing the women's conduct and actions. Cohen highlighted that Weinberg provided his real address, identified his workplace, and did not use fake contact information, arguing these were not signs of a rapist.
Weinberg, known for his work on "Scrubs" and "Californication," faces 23 charges, including sexual battery and forcible rape. He was arrested in October 2022 and initially released on $5 million bail. His bail was later revoked after additional charges were filed, and he has been held in the Los Angeles County Jail since then.
The jury, composed of eight men and four women, heard opening statements in downtown Los Angeles. If convicted, Weinberg faces a potential life sentence.