Allegations of Negligent Medical Care
Harvey Weinstein has initiated legal action against Rikers Island jail, claiming that the facility provides inadequate medical treatment and unsanitary living conditions during his incarceration. Weinstein’s legal team asserts that his chronic myeloid leukemia and diabetes are poorly managed, leading to negligent conditions that jeopardize his health. This claim precedes a more comprehensive lawsuit against New York City and aims to highlight the alleged failings of the correctional facility.
Disturbing Observations from Visits
During a recent visit to Weinstein, his attorney, Imran H. Ansari, reported alarming conditions. He observed blood stains on Weinstein’s prison attire, presumably from intravenous treatments, and noted that the clothes had not been washed in weeks. Ansari criticized the facility for failing to provide basic hygiene items, like clean underwear, which he described as especially unacceptable for someone with serious medical issues, likening the environment to a “gulag.”
Ongoing Health Issues and Hospitalization
At 72 years old, Weinstein has experienced several health crises while in custody, spending time in the hospital for various ailments throughout the year. He has received treatment for several conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and other heart-related issues. Most recently, Weinstein underwent an emergency procedure in September to drain fluid from his heart and lungs after experiencing chest pain. His legal claim seeks $5 million in damages, arguing that he was returned to the jail before making a full recovery after each hospitalization.
Recent Legal Developments
Weinstein has faced additional legal troubles, including an indictment related to a new charge of forcing oral sex on a woman in a Manhattan hotel in 2006. He pleaded not guilty to this charge. According to court documents, the alleged assault occurred over a week-long period in late April to early May of the same year. The alleged victim’s attorney expressed confidence that their client is prepared to testify at trial, aiming to bring accountability to Weinstein.
Implications and Further Proceedings
Weinstein’s recent indictments follow a tumultuous period after his previous convictions that led his film production company into bankruptcy, establishing a fund for sexual misconduct claims. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg acknowledged the bravery of the survivor who came forward, emphasizing that Weinstein now faces additional charges of sexual assault. As Weinstein’s legal challenges continue to unfold, the scrutiny surrounding his treatment and care in jail remains a critical focus of his current legal strategy.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Independent
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