Harvey Weinstein, the former Hollywood producer whose name became synonymous with the #MeToo movement, will remain behind bars in New York as he awaits a retrial for rape charges. The decision was made on Thursday as the courts deliberate whether Weinstein should stay in New York or be extradited to California, where he faces another conviction.
Weinstein’s retrial, scheduled after Labor Day, comes after his 2020 conviction on rape charges was overturned by the New York State Court of Appeals on April 25. The court now must decide whether he should serve his 16-year sentence in California or remain in New York.
During a recent court hearing, Weinstein’s legal team denied consent for his extradition to California, effectively keeping him in New York for the time being. Attorney Diana Fabi Samson stated that California must produce a warrant signed by the governor before any extradition can take place.
Weinstein, who recently left a New York hospital, appeared in court in a wheelchair wearing a dark suit. Samson emphasized his need for medical care while in custody and highlighted the procedural requirements for extradition.
Following his conviction in 2022, Weinstein was initially sent to an upstate New York prison but was transferred to the Rikers Island jail complex after the recent appellate court decision. His next court appearance in New York is scheduled for May 29, with another appearance related to the Los Angeles case set for August 7.