Harvey Weinstein Claims He Was Assaulted in Prison
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Los Angeles, March 11 (NationPress) Former Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein has claimed that he was brutally attacked while fulfilling his prison sentence.
The 73-year-old ex-producer, who was found guilty of rape and sexual assault in cases from New York and Los Angeles, detailed the incident and his daily experiences behind bars, according to ‘Female First UK’.
In an interview with ‘The Hollywood Reporter’, he recounted being “punched hard in the face” and left bleeding on the prison floor.
Currently, Weinstein is incarcerated at Rikers Island, where he is awaiting a retrial concerning allegations of raping an actress at a Manhattan hotel. He described his prison experience as both isolating and perilous, noting that he spends the majority of his time locked in his cell with limited interaction with others.
He disclosed, “Once, while waiting to use the phone, I asked the guy ahead of me if he was finished. He suddenly punched me hard in the face, and I collapsed, bleeding profusely. I sustained significant injuries.”
According to ‘Female First UK’, Weinstein mentioned that prison guards urged him to identify his assailant, but he declined.
He explained, “The officers wanted to know who did it, but I couldn't point anyone out. You can’t betray your own; that’s the unspoken rule.”
Weinstein also shared his views on the harsh conditions within the notorious facility, known as one of the toughest jails in America, stating it feels hostile and unsafe. He expressed concern over the dangers of mingling with fellow inmates, leading him to spend extended periods alone in his cell. He remarked, “It’s too risky for me to be around others. While other inmates get yard time, I feel like I'm constantly under siege whenever I step outside.”
Fearful for his life in custody, he stated, “It’s astonishing to reflect on the life I led and the contributions I made to society, only to be treated without any compassion.”
He continued, “Regardless of my past actions, I haven’t received the death penalty.” Additionally, Weinstein lamented losing contact with family members, revealing that he attempted to reach out to two of his daughters but received no replies.