NEW YORK — Legal representatives for Harvey Weinstein filed a claim on Tuesday against New York City, asserting that Weinstein is enduring inadequate medical care and unsanitary living conditions at the infamous Rikers Island jail complex.

The notice of claim marks the preliminary step towards initiating a lawsuit. It alleges that the facility has not effectively managed the medical issues faced by the former film executive, which include chronic myeloid leukemia and diabetes. The claim points to apparent negligence, citing dangerously cold conditions and a shortage of clean clothing.

Requests for comments from the city’s law department and the Department of Correction have not been met with a response thus far.

“During my last visit, I discovered him with blood stains on his prison attire, potentially from IVs. His clothing had not been washed in weeks, and he lacked even clean underwear—conditions that are far from sanitary for someone suffering from serious medical issues,” said Weinstein’s attorney, Imran H. Ansari, in a statement, likening the facility to a “gulag.”

At 72 years old, Weinstein has been in city custody since earlier this year after an appellate court overturned his previous 2020 conviction for rape. The retrial is scheduled for 2025. Weinstein has consistently denied any allegations of wrongdoing.

In April and again in July, Weinstein was hospitalized for various health problems. His legal team has reported challenges related to diabetes, high blood pressure, spinal stenosis, COVID-19, and congestive issues affecting his heart and lungs.

The claim for $5 million in damages contends that Weinstein was sent back to Rikers each time before his recovery was complete.

Weinstein’s film production company faced bankruptcy proceedings following his convictions, which led to the establishment of a $17 million fund designated for claims related to sexual misconduct.

Rikers Island is expected to be shut down by 2027, although the city has repeatedly postponed the timeline for its closure.