Harvey Weinstein’s legal team has taken action against New York City, claiming that he is not getting proper medical care while incarcerated at Rikers Island. In a legal claim filed this week, they argue that Weinstein, who suffers from serious health issues like chronic myeloid leukemia and diabetes, is being subjected to poor hygiene and inadequate treatment.
Weinstein’s attorney, Imran H. Ansari, expressed deep concern over the conditions in which he is being held. He reported that during his last visit, Weinstein’s clothing was dirty and showed signs of blood, and he had not been given clean underwear. Ansari described the facility’s conditions as far from acceptable, comparing it to a “gulag.”
The 72-year-old Weinstein has been in custody since earlier this year after his 2020 rape conviction was overturned by the New York Court of Appeals. He is scheduled to face a retrial in 2025. Weinstein maintains his innocence regarding the charges against him.
Reports indicate that Weinstein has been hospitalized multiple times this year due to various health issues, including diabetes and high blood pressure. His team has alleged that he was returned to Rikers before he had fully recovered from these medical problems.
The legal claim seeks $5 million in damages, citing the inadequate medical treatment he has received while under the city’s care. Rikers Island is set to close by 2027, although current plans to meet that deadline have already faced delays.
As this case continues, it raises questions about how the city handles the health and well-being of those in its custody, especially those facing significant health challenges.
