Harvey Weinstein, the former studio boss facing rape and sexual assault charges, has been transferred to a New York City hospital from Rikers Island jail complex for necessary medical treatment. Weinstein’s health issues, including chronic myeloid leukemia and diabetes, were cited as reasons for the move by his lawyers during the ongoing retrial. Judge Paul Goetz approved the relocation, which will last until a hearing next Thursday. Another judge, Curtis Farber, is overseeing the retrial, which resumed with jury selection after nine jurors were selected this week, aiming for a total of 12 jurors and six alternates.

Weinstein is undergoing a retrial following the overturning of his 2020 conviction and prison sentence due to improper rulings and prejudicial testimony. Maintaining his innocence, Weinstein has denied all allegations of rape and sexual assault. His frequent visits to Bellevue hospital in recent months for medical treatment have led to a legal claim against New York City, alleging substandard medical care at Rikers. The troubled jail complex has faced criticism for mistreatment of detainees and unsafe conditions, with a federal judge even considering a possible federal takeover due to the city’s failure to ensure the safety of inmates.