Harvey Weinstein's hospital stay spurs debate on 'special treatment'
Former Hollywood heavyweight, Harvey Weinstein is reportedly residing in a private room within Bellevue Hospital's intensive care unit (ICU). This privilege is not typically extended to most city detainees with serious health conditions. Unlike other detainees, Weinstein has access to his private phone, bathroom, and television, reported the City. His days are primarily spent watching TV shows and discussing legal matters with his appeal attorney, Arthur Aidala, as he awaits his fresh rape trial.
Why does this story matter?
Previously held at Mohawk correctional facility, Weinstein was transferred back into city custody after New York's highest court overturned his 23-year prison sentence. The court ruled that the trial judge committed "egregious" errors, by admitting testimony from women whose allegations weren't relevant to the case. This decision was deemed to have deprived Weinstein of a fair trial. Still, Weinstein continues to serve time due to another rape conviction in LA in 2022 for which he received a 16-year sentence.
Weinstein was transferred to Bellevue Hospital after a health scare
Weinstein was moved to Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan after reporting chest discomfort. The 72-year-old convicted sex offender has since been diagnosed with pneumonia and is reportedly dealing with other severe health issues, including persistent chest and abdominal pain. "Harvey has multiple health issues and he's never gotten the level of care that he received prior to going into custody," his attorney, Donna Rotunno, told the City.
Weinstein able to shave, shower independently; then why ICU?
Although able to shave, shower, and move out of bed independently, Weinstein continues to stay in the ICU. A clinician previously working at Rikers Island Correctional Facility questioned his extended stay in the unit. "He's not supposed to be there. It's special treatment," the clinician stated. Despite attempts by jail officials last week to relocate him to the 19th-floor unit, Weinstein was returned to his private room in the ICU.
Weinstein's security detail raised questions, too
Weinstein is constantly monitored by four correction officers from the department's emergency service unit (ESU). Martin Horn, a former high-ranking jail official during NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg's administration, questioned this arrangement. "Does he need ESU? No. Could two regular officers watch him? Probably. He's certainly not an escape risk," Horn stated. The private accommodations aside, Weinstein must comply with certain regulations such as consuming only hospital-provided meals and wearing jail-issued sweatsuits.
