Carl Rinsch: 5 things you need to know as Netflix director jailed for $11 million fraud

Carl Rinsch sentenced to 30 months in prison for embezzling $11 million from Netflix

1. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff of the Southern District New York Rinsch is required to repay $11 million to Netflix, enter a mental health treatment program and abstain from narcotics.
2. Keanu Reeves, best known for his role in Lynch’s film “47 Ronin,” publicly supported the director, writing to the judge arguing for leniency in the case, although his efforts were unsuccessful. “This process forced me to confront things about my health, my judgment and my life,” Linsch said. “I didn’t realize the dangers of the situation I was in.”
3. Lynch, 48, and his legal representatives told the court on Monday that his behavior was affected by mental health issues and drug-related complications, and they said he is currently undergoing treatment with a new health care provider. “This process forced me to confront things about my health, my judgment and my life,” Linsch said. He apologized for his actions, admitting “real harm was caused” and explaining: “I did not realize the dangers of the situation I was in.”
4. Prosecutor Linsch, who is also responsible for approximately $11 million in restitution, argued that he should be sentenced to five years in prison.
5. Prosecutor David Markewitz told the court that “Mr. Linsch had every possible advantage” including family wealth, a good education, famous acquaintances and a successful career. Prosecutors claimed Linsch was motivated by “naked greed.”

Rinsch, who also works under the name Carl Erik Rinsch, is from the Los Angeles area and began his filmmaking journey as a teenager by making short films. He later directed commercials and gained recognition for his work in “47 Ronin,” starring Reeves. In the film, his character leads a group of outcast samurai on a quest to avenge their master.