Harvey Weinstein has been transferred to a hospital in New York City following a judge’s decision to allow the ailing former studio executive to remain there rather than in jail when not attending court for his retrial related to the #MeToo movement. The decision was made by Judge Paul Goetz, who directed Weinstein’s immediate relocation from Rikers Island jail complex to the prison ward at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, ensuring he receives necessary medical care.
Weinstein’s legal team advocated for the transfer as jury selection commenced this week, arguing that the harsh conditions at the jail, particularly the cold, were worsening his health issues. The former Oscar-winning producer is dealing with chronic myeloid leukemia, diabetes, and mobility challenges that necessitate the use of a wheelchair for court appearances.
The judge’s order is set to remain in effect until at least next Thursday when further discussions on the matter are scheduled. Meanwhile, Judge Curtis Farber is overseeing Weinstein’s retrial. The case is expected to continue on Monday with additional jury selection, following the selection of nine jurors this week. A total of 12 jurors and six alternates are required for the trial.
This retrial comes after New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, overturned Weinstein’s 2020 conviction and 23-year prison sentence last year, citing improper rulings and prejudicial testimony in the original trial. Weinstein has pleaded not guilty to the charges of rape and sexual assault, maintaining his innocence.
Weinstein has frequently been admitted to Bellevue Hospital in recent months for the treatment of various health conditions. During a pretrial hearing in January, he criticized his treatment at Rikers Island, expressing a desire to leave the facility as soon as possible.
In November of last year, Weinstein’s lawyers filed a legal claim against New York City, alleging inadequate medical care in unsanitary conditions at Rikers. The claim, seeking $5 million in damages, contends that Weinstein has repeatedly been sent back to Rikers before fully recovering at the hospital.
The Rikers Island jail complex has been under increasing scrutiny for the mistreatment of detainees and its hazardous conditions. Last year, a federal judge allowed the possibility of a federal takeover, concluding that the city had placed inmates in situations of unconstitutional danger.