Carl Rinsch, a Hollywood writer-director, was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison on Monday after being convicted of defrauding Netflix out of $11 million for an unfinished sci-fi show called "White Horse". The sentence is in line with the prosecution's recommendation.
According to prosecutors and trial testimony, Rinsch diverted the money into a personal account and used it to fund lavish purchases, including five Rolls-Royces, a red Ferrari, luxury watches, clothes, and household goods. He also used some of the funds to pay off credit card bills.
Rinsch's defense team argued that his behavior was fueled by mental health struggles and medication problems, which he is now addressing with a new care provider. Keanu Reeves, who starred in one of Rinsch's previous films, "47 Ronin", wrote a letter to the court expressing support for Rinsch and urging leniency.
However, prosecutors argued that Rinsch's motive was "naked greed" and that he had every possible advantage, including family money, an elite education, and famous friends. U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff said that while Rinsch's mental health difficulties may have contributed to his behavior, they do not detract from the court's conclusion that he was determined to lie to get substantial monies from Netflix.
Rinsch is due to report to prison in September and owes about $11 million in restitution. His lawyers declined to comment on the sentence, except to say that they look forward to appealing the case.