New York City – After an appeals court ruling annulled Harvey Weinstein’s 2020 rape conviction, the former movie mogul has been hospitalized in Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan for a series of tests. His attorney, Arthur Aidala, stated that Weinstein’s health required significant attention upon his return to the city jails on Friday.
Weinstein’s journey to Bellevue Hospital followed an examination that revealed various health issues, described by Aidala as a “train wreck.” The hospital has not yet responded to inquiries regarding Weinstein’s condition as of Saturday. However, Frank Dwyer of the New York City Department of Correction confirmed that Weinstein is under custody at Bellevue.
The Court of Appeals in New York nullified Weinstein’s conviction after determining that the jury had been exposed to excessive evidence unrelated to the charges against him. This decision not only erased his original 23-year prison sentence but also called for a retrial. Prosecutors plan to retry Weinstein on charges of forcible oral sex in 2006 and rape in 2013.
Weinstein’s ongoing custody is connected to a separate 2022 rape conviction in Los Angeles, where he received a 16-year prison sentence. His health has been deteriorating for some time, with various documented ailments like cardiac issues, diabetes, and eye problems.
Despite his physical health challenges, Aidala emphasized that Weinstein remains mentally sound, ready to face the legal proceedings ahead. The lawyer criticized the treatment Weinstein received during his transfer, claiming that basic necessities like water and food were denied to the 72-year-old.
Plans are in place for Weinstein to undergo further testing at Bellevue Hospital before potentially being transferred back to Rikers Island jail complex. Aidala is set to meet with Weinstein on Monday and to advocate for a retrial after the Labor Day holiday. The legal battle following Weinstein’s overturned conviction continues as he navigates complex legal and health challenges in the wake of his return to New York City.