Harvey Weinstein, the famous movie producer, pleaded with a New York judge to speed up his new trial related to #MeToo charges. He said, “I don’t know how much longer I can hold on” because of serious health problems, including cancer and heart issues, while stuck in tough conditions at Rikers Island jail.
Weinstein, who is 72 years old, complained during a court hearing about receiving the wrong medication and delays in getting to court. He arrived in a wheelchair and told the judge, Curtis Farber, that he often struggles to breathe. “I’m begging the court to move your date,” Weinstein asked, wanting to get out of jail as quickly as he can.
The judge initially set the trial to start on April 15, but Weinstein wanted it to be moved up. He pointed out that his lawyer is involved in another trial starting soon, which complicates scheduling. He noted that his health is declining and he might need to go back to the hospital for treatment.
Weinstein is facing serious charges, including claims from two women about sexual abuse in 2006 and 2013. There is also a new charge against him from another woman that dates back to 2006. This new allegation was brought forward just before his first trial but wasn’t included in it.
Weinstein’s lawyer argued for his case to be heard first because of his poor health. The District Attorney’s office mentioned that they didn’t pursue the new allegation until now because it required careful investigation.
Weinstein, who once produced big films like Pulp Fiction, became a key figure in the #MeToo movement known for sexual misconduct. He insists that everything that happened was consensual. After being convicted in the past, a higher court overturned his conviction due to improper evidence being used.
He has also been sentenced to 16 years in prison for another case in Los Angeles and is currently in custody while waiting for his new trial.
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