Harvey Weinstein Approved for Transfer to Bellevue Hospital Amid Retrial
NEW YORK – A Manhattan judge has authorized the transfer of Harvey Weinstein from Rikers Island to Bellevue Hospital, responding to a request from his legal team as jury selection for his retrial continues at a sluggish pace.
Current Status of the Retrial
As of now, only nine jurors have been selected for Weinstein’s retrial, which revolves around rape and sex crime allegations. The selection process will resume on Monday after a break for Good Friday. The judge presiding over the case, Curtis Farber, is managing the jury selection, which has seen a significant number of potential jurors disqualified due to scheduling conflicts or concerns about impartiality.
Background of the Case
This retrial comes after Weinstein’s 2020 conviction was overturned by New York’s Court of Appeals, which determined that he had not received a fair trial. The court ruled that testimony from women not involved in the original case had been improperly included in the proceedings.
Details of the Transfer
On Thursday, the judge approved the request to move Weinstein to Bellevue Hospital. The specific medical reasons for this transfer were not disclosed in court documents.
Charges and Defenses
Weinstein faces serious accusations, including the rape of two women and forcing oral sex on a third individual. He has pleaded not guilty to these charges, asserting that all sexual encounters were consensual.
What to Expect Next
The jury selection process is set to continue on Monday as the court remains closed for Good Friday. The goal is to finalize a jury of twelve members along with six alternates. It is important to note that the retrial will differ from the initial trial in terms of both charges and the evidence expected to be presented.
Source: This article incorporates information from the Associated Press and staff at FOX 5 NY.
