1 week Ago By Connor McCrory
Harvey Weinstein 's health is reportedly worsening behind bars, with his representatives warning that he is in serious condition at Rikers Island . Juda Engelmayer , a spokesperson for Weinstein, says the 72-year-old is struggling with multiple medical issues that have become harder to manage in the jail’s environment. “Harvey’s health is rapidly deteriorating in custody,” Engelmayer told reporters, citing poor prison conditions as a major factor.
Weinstein, who has faced numerous hospital visits during his incarceration, was transferred back to Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan this week. According to Engelmayer, he is being treated for a severe tongue inflammation that has made it difficult for him to swallow, raising concerns that he could choke. “His tongue is so swollen, he’s having trouble eating or even talking.
This is a real risk,” Engelmayer said. In addition to the infection, Weinstein has reportedly gained over 25 pounds since his last stay at Bellevue, with 19 pounds added in just the last month. The weight gain, according to his team, is making his diabetes and heart problems worse.
Engelmayer also pointed to ongoing issues with medication access, untreated chest palpitations, and worsening mobility. “These are serious health conditions, and the lack of timely medical care could turn them into life-threatening ones,” Engelmayer added. Weinstein, who is serving time for rape and sexual assault convictions, has long claimed that his imprisonment is taking a toll on his health.
Over the past year, he has been treated for pneumonia, leukemia, and has undergone heart surgery. Despite his legal troubles and declining health, Weinstein continues to maintain his innocence. In a recent jailhouse statement, he even compared his situation to actor Justin Baldoni’s legal dispute, accusing The New York Times of biased reporting in both cases.
“They cherry-pick facts to fit their story,” he said. In January, Weinstein pleaded for his retrial to move forward, saying, “I want to be out of this hellhole ..
. I want this to be over with.” The New York City Department of Correction has not yet responded to requests for comment on Weinstein’s current medical treatment or the conditions at Rikers.
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