Harvey Weinstein Back in Rikers After Hospital Controversy
Harvey Weinstein is back in New York's Rikers Island jail after a controversy erupted over special treatment he received during a recent hospital stay.
Special Treatment at Bellevue Hospital
According to The City, Weinstein, 72, enjoyed a private room with a phone, bathroom, and TV at Bellevue Hospital – a stark contrast to the standard conditions for inmates. This preferential treatment included access to CNN and unrestricted phone calls, which other detainees wouldn't have.
Harvey Weinstein taken to hospital after transferring to Rikers Island jail ahead of court appearance. https://t.co/3AZkLlfIAK
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) April 27, 2024
Source: Twitter/TODAYshow
The news report sparked outrage, prompting jail officials to quickly move Weinstein back to Rikers.
Weinstein's Health Concerns
Weinstein's legal team, led by Donna Rotunno, maintains he suffers from various health issues, including pneumonia, chest pain, and abdominal pain.
They argue he requires a higher level of care than Rikers can provide. Anonymous sources partially corroborated these claims, acknowledging Weinstein's illness and the superior medical facilities at Bellevue compared to Rikers.
However, a hospital technician anonymously disputed the severity of Weinstein's condition. They highlighted his ability to perform daily activities independently and questioned the justification for his extended stay in a potentially specialized unit.
Appeal Overturned Conviction, Retrial Planned
This turn of events follows the recent overturning of Weinstein's 2020 rape conviction. New York's Court of Appeals found procedural errors made by the original trial judge.
Undeterred, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, led by District Attorney Alvin Bragg, plans to retry Weinstein.
They have requested a September 2024 trial date, expressing confidence in securing another conviction. Assistant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg echoed this sentiment.
A follow-up hearing is scheduled for late May to potentially finalize the September trial date.
This case continues to unfold, with Weinstein facing a potential retrial while his health remains a point of contention.
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