Harvey Weinstein files claim against jail alleging lack of medical care
NEW YORK CITY – Harvey Weinstein Files Legal Claim Against City Alleging Substandard Medical Treatment at Rikers Island
Harvey Weinstein’s legal team took a major step on Tuesday by filing a notice of claim against New York City, citing concerns over the substandard medical treatment and unhygienic conditions the former movie mogul is allegedly facing while in custody at Rikers Island jail complex.
The claim accuses the facility of failing to adequately manage Weinstein’s medical conditions, which include chronic myeloid leukemia and diabetes. It also raises issues of negligence, ranging from unsanitary conditions to a lack of clean clothes for the incarcerated individual.
Weinstein’s attorney, Imran H. Ansari, expressed his dismay over the conditions at Rikers Island, stating, “When I last visited him, I found him with blood spatter on his prison garb, possibly from IV’s, clothes that had not been washed for weeks, and he had not even been provided clean underwear – hardly sanitary conditions for someone with severe medical conditions.” Ansari went on to compare the facility to a “gulag,” emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Weinstein, currently 72 years old, has been in city custody since earlier this year following the overturning of his 2020 rape conviction by the New York Court of Appeals. The case is scheduled to be retried in 2025, with Weinstein continuing to maintain his innocence.
Throughout his time in custody, Weinstein has faced multiple health issues, leading to brief hospitalizations in April and July. His legal team has disclosed that he has been treated for various conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, spinal stenosis, COVID-19, and fluid on his heart and lungs.
The notice of claim seeks damages amounting to US$5 million, highlighting the severity of the situation and the impact on Weinstein’s well-being.
Weinstein’s film production company underwent bankruptcy proceedings after his convictions, resulting in the establishment of a US$17 million fund for addressing sexual misconduct claims.
Despite plans to close the Rikers Island jail by 2027, the city has faced challenges in meeting deadlines for the closure, prolonging the controversial existence of the facility.
