The fallen film mogul Harvey Weinstein (67) was read his sentence on Wednesday. The Manhattan Supreme Court sentenced the sex offender to 23 years in prison. A case law that, according to U.S. attorney Dr. Nick Oberheiden "is to be rated as very high by American standards". Nevertheless, it was "absolutely in the context of what can be expected from a legal and legal perspective".
Dr. Oberheiden is a litigator and has lived and worked in the United States for 20 years. He explains to the news agency spot on news: Weinstein's lawyers certainly have the opportunity to appeal against the sentence, "and they will certainly use it". Until then, the 67-year-old must remain in prison.
Chances of early release are good
A maximum of 29 years in prison could have come to Weinstein, now it is 23 years. "But since the trial took place in a New York state court," says Dr. Oberheiden, "he has excellent chances of being released after 10 to 15 years with good leadership". The lawyer is sure that the former Hollywood producer does not have to serve the full prison sentence. In comparison: "If it had been a federal procedure, there would certainly not have been the possibility of an early release."
Not only good leadership could shorten Weinstein's stay in prison. The deterioration in his health could also be used as an opportunity to petition for mercy. "However, his condition should actually deteriorate rapidly." The current back problems of the 67-year-old would therefore not be sufficient. "We are talking more about a remaining life expectancy of six months," said the expert.
To what extent is the pending judgment in Los Angeles affected?
Weinstein was convicted in Manhattan, New York. The lawsuit is also to be tried in Los Angeles. Could the recent ruling affect the Los Angeles indictment? "No, definitely not," says Dr. Oberheiden explains: "The Los Angeles court is completely independent of the New York judgment and can sentence Weinstein to a completely different sentence." However, there is the possibility of a deal. "Hypothetically, a possible prison sentence in L.A. could be taken into account in New York – and not added to."