6 may 2014
State indicts PM’s former driver for sex assaults on minors
From 1988-2006, Ilan Shmuel, 51, allegedly raped or sexually assaulted several female family members.
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s former driver was indicted in the Jerusalem District Court on Sunday for hundreds of sexual assaults and rapes against six minors, mostly relatives of his, over 21 years.
The indictment against Ilan Shmuel, 51, a Zecharya resident, was filed by the Jerusalem District Attorney’s Office.
It includes accusations that from 1988-2006, Shmuel raped, or sexually assaulted, several female family members and from 2007-2009, he sexually assaulted A.A. (also referred to in the indictment as G.G.), a friend of his daughter, who was nine-years-old at the time.
As the victims were minors, their real names are under a gag order.
The narrative of the indictment goes as follows: Shmuel sexually assaulted and raped B.B., who was 12-years-old, dozens of times, starting in 1988, over a one to two-year period – at B.B’s grandparents’ house.
The assaults included forcing her to learn a variety of sexual skills, while telling her that men she had sexual relations with later in life would appreciate that “you are already experienced.”
In one incident where Shmuel raped B.B. he told her she would enjoy it, but when she cried out in pain, he said: “It will be over soon.”
While driving B.B. home, Shmuel told her he had just “lost control” but that it “would not happen again,” and that she “should not tell anyone.”
However, Shmuel continued to rape B.B. repeatedly in the future, sometimes forcing her into the grandparents’ home as B.B. tried to resist.
From 1991-1995, Shmuel sexually assaulted C.C., a family member who at the time was 11-years-old, dozens of times and in numerous ways – in her home.
In 1996, Shmuel sexually assaulted D.D., a family member who at the time was nineyears- old, numerous times and in a variety of ways, at his house and in his car.
From 2004-2006, Shmuel sexually assaulted E.E., a family member who at the time 11-years-old, numerous times and in a variety of ways, while at his house.
In some cases, E.E. was unable to perform as Shmuel demanded, but he continued sexually assaulting her.
Shmuel also raped and sexually assaulted F.F., despite her crying out in pain, and sexually assaulted G.G.
Both F.F. and G.G. were also minors, while F.F. was another family member and G.G.
was a friend of a family member.
With many of the minors, Shmuel told them it would be their “special secret” and not to tell anyone.
According to media reports, Shmuel was Netanyahu’s driver until 2011, when he was removed from the post after the office discovered that he was being investigated for sex crimes.
The prime minister would not comment on the previous case against Shmuel.
The Prime Minister’s Office said that they were told about the new allegations a month ago and immediately reported the matter to the relevant authorities. Shmuel was placed on leave.
They added that they are dealing with the case in keeping with regulations placed on state agencies.
24 apr 2014
Netanyahu's Driver Accused of Serially Raping Minors
Ilan Shmuel in court
Attorney says client admits 'some allegations'; victims may include family members
A driver for the Prime Minister's Office was arrested in Jerusalem, three weeks ago, on suspicion of serially raping young girls between the ages of 8 and 12, it emerged Thursday.
Ilan Shmuel, 52, from Moshav Zekharia, near Beit Shemesh, has had 12 complaints made against him, the police said. He is suspected of raping members of his own family over a period of many years, Israeli daily Ynet has reported.
A gag order had been placed on the name of the suspect Wednesday, Ynet went on to say, but police asked Thursday for his name to published, in the hope of encouraging any additional victims to come forward. Police also said Shmuel had admitted some but not all of the charges against him.
"The serious allegations are being investigated by police as we speak," Levy said, adding that Shmuel denies "the majority of the offenses, admits to some of the allegations and regrets them."
State indicts PM’s former driver for sex assaults on minors
From 1988-2006, Ilan Shmuel, 51, allegedly raped or sexually assaulted several female family members.
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s former driver was indicted in the Jerusalem District Court on Sunday for hundreds of sexual assaults and rapes against six minors, mostly relatives of his, over 21 years.
The indictment against Ilan Shmuel, 51, a Zecharya resident, was filed by the Jerusalem District Attorney’s Office.
It includes accusations that from 1988-2006, Shmuel raped, or sexually assaulted, several female family members and from 2007-2009, he sexually assaulted A.A. (also referred to in the indictment as G.G.), a friend of his daughter, who was nine-years-old at the time.
As the victims were minors, their real names are under a gag order.
The narrative of the indictment goes as follows: Shmuel sexually assaulted and raped B.B., who was 12-years-old, dozens of times, starting in 1988, over a one to two-year period – at B.B’s grandparents’ house.
The assaults included forcing her to learn a variety of sexual skills, while telling her that men she had sexual relations with later in life would appreciate that “you are already experienced.”
In one incident where Shmuel raped B.B. he told her she would enjoy it, but when she cried out in pain, he said: “It will be over soon.”
While driving B.B. home, Shmuel told her he had just “lost control” but that it “would not happen again,” and that she “should not tell anyone.”
However, Shmuel continued to rape B.B. repeatedly in the future, sometimes forcing her into the grandparents’ home as B.B. tried to resist.
From 1991-1995, Shmuel sexually assaulted C.C., a family member who at the time was 11-years-old, dozens of times and in numerous ways – in her home.
In 1996, Shmuel sexually assaulted D.D., a family member who at the time was nineyears- old, numerous times and in a variety of ways, at his house and in his car.
From 2004-2006, Shmuel sexually assaulted E.E., a family member who at the time 11-years-old, numerous times and in a variety of ways, while at his house.
In some cases, E.E. was unable to perform as Shmuel demanded, but he continued sexually assaulting her.
Shmuel also raped and sexually assaulted F.F., despite her crying out in pain, and sexually assaulted G.G.
Both F.F. and G.G. were also minors, while F.F. was another family member and G.G.
was a friend of a family member.
With many of the minors, Shmuel told them it would be their “special secret” and not to tell anyone.
According to media reports, Shmuel was Netanyahu’s driver until 2011, when he was removed from the post after the office discovered that he was being investigated for sex crimes.
The prime minister would not comment on the previous case against Shmuel.
The Prime Minister’s Office said that they were told about the new allegations a month ago and immediately reported the matter to the relevant authorities. Shmuel was placed on leave.
They added that they are dealing with the case in keeping with regulations placed on state agencies.
24 apr 2014
Netanyahu's Driver Accused of Serially Raping Minors
Ilan Shmuel in court
Attorney says client admits 'some allegations'; victims may include family members
A driver for the Prime Minister's Office was arrested in Jerusalem, three weeks ago, on suspicion of serially raping young girls between the ages of 8 and 12, it emerged Thursday.
Ilan Shmuel, 52, from Moshav Zekharia, near Beit Shemesh, has had 12 complaints made against him, the police said. He is suspected of raping members of his own family over a period of many years, Israeli daily Ynet has reported.
A gag order had been placed on the name of the suspect Wednesday, Ynet went on to say, but police asked Thursday for his name to published, in the hope of encouraging any additional victims to come forward. Police also said Shmuel had admitted some but not all of the charges against him.
"The serious allegations are being investigated by police as we speak," Levy said, adding that Shmuel denies "the majority of the offenses, admits to some of the allegations and regrets them."
18 feb 2014
75% of criminal files in Israel related to sexual offenses: survey
Judge Nissim Yeshaya is in hot water for saying that ‘there are girls who enjoy rape’ during a court case june 5th 2013.
“ The number of criminal files against government employees in Israel significantly increased by 41% during 2013 ,” according to the annual report issued by the Israeli Discipline Department in the General Personnel Council. According to the survey results, 303 files were submitted in 2013 compared to 132 files during 2012.”
It also indicated that 142 pleas brought to the discipline court in 2013 compared to 132 during 2012, in an average of 7%.
About 53 government employees have been sacked while five employees were transferred from their offices.
The report revealed that 75% of the files submitted on charges of harassment and sexual offenses.
Most complaints were against workers of some bodies and institutions, which includes: Ministry of Education,311, Ministry of Health, 180, Taxes Authority, 126, Immigration and Housing Authorities, 50, Ministry of Transportation, 40, Fire Brigade Authority, 30 and 24 complaints were against Ministry of Justice, according to the report.
29 jan 2013
Women's group: Ban Eshel from public office
Israel Women's Network urges AG to bar disgraced PM bureau chief from heading coalition negotiation; warns 'Bringing Eshel back threatens women's safety'.
The possible return to public life of Nathan Eshel, Benjamin Netanyahu's former chief of staff who was dismissed over sexual harassment allegations, stirred great upheaval in recent days, culminating in The Israel Women's Network approaching the prime minister and the attorney general on Tuesday, demanding that Eshel be immediately barred from assuming any public or diplomatic office, in the current administration or in the future.
After it was published that Netanyahu may appoint Eshel to run coalitional negotiations for the newly elected 19th Knesset, many opposed Eshel's return to the political arena, seeing as according to a plea bargain agreed between his attorneys and Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein, Eshel agreed not to seek another position in the civil service.
The opposition to Eshel's return – consisting of an online petition and a heated debate on various media outlets – resulted in the former PM chief of staff's lashing out at his opponents, as he told Ynet Tuesday that his case was was "blown out of proportion" and that "Apparently, women have no problem lying."
Meretz' Tamar Zandberg, whom Eshel threatened to sue after she delivered a letter to the attorney general last week, asking him to step in and prevent Eshel's involvement in coalitional negotiations, told Ynet Tuesday that this is "Someone who was caught lying twice in the past couple of days."
Zandberg, about to serve as a member of the 19th Knesset, added: "If I were him, I would keep quiet and leave public life, as was publicly asked."
In her letter to the AG last week, Zandberg stressed that should Netnayhu rehire Eshel, it will be a "complete disregard to the safety of women and the severity of Eshel's conduct… His return… permits violence against women and sends out a message that transgressions of this kind are not severe enough to enforce."
Criticism was also cast at Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu, as he was the one behind Esehl's potential rehiring. Merav Michaeli, a Labor member who is about to serve as an MK once the Knesset is sworn in, wrote on her Facebook page: "Let's make this clear – Natan Eshel is not the problem. He was permanently expelled from public service for harassment. The problem is Netanyahu."
Michaeli reiterated that Netanyahu "Is the man who encourages oppression and humiliation of women by systematically disregarding the attorney general's decision; this is the man who encourages women's oppression by keeping disturbingly silent in the face of his crony Eshel ('women have no problem lying'). Eshel is the symptom. Netanyahu is the problem. Netanyahu might keep his mouth shut, but we definitely won't."
Addressing the controversial quote, Eshel said Tuesday that he did not think that all women were liars. The former PM chief of staff stressed that in saying "women have no problem lying," he only referred to the women who "have been attacking him in the past few days, while weaving lies about things that never happened."
Eshel's statement added that he "respects any honest person, men and women alike."
'Should not assume an influential position'
The Israel Women's Network executive director Galit Deshe told Ynet that "We see the prime minister, the attorney general and the civil service commissioner as responsible for the protection of the rule of the law, of morality and of women's right to safety, in the workplace and outside it. Bringing Natan Eshel back in this revolving door, over and over again, directly hinders women's safety and the State's moral standards.
"Mr. Eshel claims to have been subjected to injustice and that he was not convicted of what he is accused. It is however only fitting that someone who admitted to improper behavior… would understand that he no longer belongs in any public move that has any effect on the country's agenda."
According to The Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, "Natan Eshel continues to harm women. It is impossible that he would return to public office." A representative of the center stressed that Eshel abused his power while in office and "should not assume an influential position as if nothing happened."
Shula Keshet, executive director of the Achoti women's movement, added that "It is well known that Eshel's deal stipulated that he be permanently banned from public activity."
Eshel resigned his post as PM chief of staff on March, after admitting in a plea bargain to improper behavior toward an employee in the Prime Minister's Office.
12 sept 2012
No rape charge for Moti Malka
Kiryat Malachi mayor will not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence; still facing indecent act charges
12 sept 2012
House of horrors: 21 years of rape, abuse
Indictment filed Wednesday at Tel Aviv District Court exposes father, mother who abused, sexually assaulted their daughters over 21 year period.
According to an indictment filed Wednesday, three sisters were repeatedly raped by their father for the past 21 years. Though the mother knew what the father was doing to three of her four daughters, the indictment stated that not only did she keep silent, but also abused her daughters herself.
The father sexually abused his daughters ever since they were little girls and through to adolescence. When one of the daughters described to her mother what the father was doing to her, confessing it was painful and unpleasant, the mother dismissed her saying: "It's ok, he does that to me too."
The indictment further stated that the mother made a habit of locking her daughters in the bathroom, sticking their heads in the toilet and flushing, and threatened to use an iron on their faces.
Apparently the father also peeped on his daughters in the shower on a regular basis. The State Prosecutor's Office obtained evidence from therapists who have recounted the daughters' testimonies.
The prosecution asked that the court extend the remand of the father until legal proceedings against him are completed, and that a restraining order be issued against the mother, keeping her away from her city of residence.
Relating to the father, the indictment noted that "the defendant's actions during the years in question were made by use of force, or threats of force, and in a manner that did not allow the complainants to express any resistance. The defendant executed his assaults while abusing the naivety of the minors, his parental authority, their fear of him, and their trust in him."
As for the mother, the indictment stated that "starting 1989, the mother knew that the father was sexually assaulting the complainants, and assisted him with carrying out his assaults by abandoning her duty to help the complainants, whether by taking them away from the defendant, or by informing the police or the authorities of his abuse so that they can help the complainants; all the while knowing that her actions, or lack there of, are most probably helpful to the father."
12 sept 2012
No rape charge for Moti Malka
Kiryat Malachi mayor will not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence; still facing indecent act charges.
The Southern District Prosecutor's Office announced Wednesday that subject to a hearing, Kiryat Malachi Mayor Moti Malka would be indicted on two counts of indecent acts against two complainants and a count of bribery for taking bribes from contractors employed by the municipality.
Sources close to Malka said in response: "Just as we said from day one, and as Malka repeatedly told police investigators, there were (sexual) relations but they were consensual and we are happy that the prosecution has realized that things are not as bad as some people tried to paint them."
The prosecution said in response that the case was recently reviewed and that various additions to the case were included. They also noted that several meetings were held with State Prosecutor Moshe Lador who will hold Malka's hearing.
The prosecutor's office explained that they decided that Malka, who was accused of raping two other women, would not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence.
Statute of limitations means that an additional count of indecent acts was removed from the indictment. Moreover, the prosecution decided to close the case against Malka's deputy, Yossi Sulimani due to lack of evidence.
The prosecutor's office stated: "As in other cases in this delicate sphere, the prosecution took the complex considerations which must be taken into account in assessing the events and the testimonies of the involved parties regarding these events."
The statement further noted that: "after a rigorous examination of the case, it was decided – among other reasons, for considerations which naturally, cannot be divulged to the public – that in light of the evidentiary material, there is no room to file an indictment against Mr. Malka on these two matters, due to a lack of reasonable chance of conviction."
Malka was arrested after a covert which began after the police were tipped off regarding financial improprieties and sexual harassment in city hall.
The investigation also revealed that they were embroiled in a bribery scheme involving fixed municipal bids.
Initially, the woman refused to file a police complaint, fearing she would be subjected to even more abuse.
75% of criminal files in Israel related to sexual offenses: survey
Judge Nissim Yeshaya is in hot water for saying that ‘there are girls who enjoy rape’ during a court case june 5th 2013.
“ The number of criminal files against government employees in Israel significantly increased by 41% during 2013 ,” according to the annual report issued by the Israeli Discipline Department in the General Personnel Council. According to the survey results, 303 files were submitted in 2013 compared to 132 files during 2012.”
It also indicated that 142 pleas brought to the discipline court in 2013 compared to 132 during 2012, in an average of 7%.
About 53 government employees have been sacked while five employees were transferred from their offices.
The report revealed that 75% of the files submitted on charges of harassment and sexual offenses.
Most complaints were against workers of some bodies and institutions, which includes: Ministry of Education,311, Ministry of Health, 180, Taxes Authority, 126, Immigration and Housing Authorities, 50, Ministry of Transportation, 40, Fire Brigade Authority, 30 and 24 complaints were against Ministry of Justice, according to the report.
29 jan 2013
Women's group: Ban Eshel from public office
Israel Women's Network urges AG to bar disgraced PM bureau chief from heading coalition negotiation; warns 'Bringing Eshel back threatens women's safety'.
The possible return to public life of Nathan Eshel, Benjamin Netanyahu's former chief of staff who was dismissed over sexual harassment allegations, stirred great upheaval in recent days, culminating in The Israel Women's Network approaching the prime minister and the attorney general on Tuesday, demanding that Eshel be immediately barred from assuming any public or diplomatic office, in the current administration or in the future.
After it was published that Netanyahu may appoint Eshel to run coalitional negotiations for the newly elected 19th Knesset, many opposed Eshel's return to the political arena, seeing as according to a plea bargain agreed between his attorneys and Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein, Eshel agreed not to seek another position in the civil service.
The opposition to Eshel's return – consisting of an online petition and a heated debate on various media outlets – resulted in the former PM chief of staff's lashing out at his opponents, as he told Ynet Tuesday that his case was was "blown out of proportion" and that "Apparently, women have no problem lying."
Meretz' Tamar Zandberg, whom Eshel threatened to sue after she delivered a letter to the attorney general last week, asking him to step in and prevent Eshel's involvement in coalitional negotiations, told Ynet Tuesday that this is "Someone who was caught lying twice in the past couple of days."
Zandberg, about to serve as a member of the 19th Knesset, added: "If I were him, I would keep quiet and leave public life, as was publicly asked."
In her letter to the AG last week, Zandberg stressed that should Netnayhu rehire Eshel, it will be a "complete disregard to the safety of women and the severity of Eshel's conduct… His return… permits violence against women and sends out a message that transgressions of this kind are not severe enough to enforce."
Criticism was also cast at Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu, as he was the one behind Esehl's potential rehiring. Merav Michaeli, a Labor member who is about to serve as an MK once the Knesset is sworn in, wrote on her Facebook page: "Let's make this clear – Natan Eshel is not the problem. He was permanently expelled from public service for harassment. The problem is Netanyahu."
Michaeli reiterated that Netanyahu "Is the man who encourages oppression and humiliation of women by systematically disregarding the attorney general's decision; this is the man who encourages women's oppression by keeping disturbingly silent in the face of his crony Eshel ('women have no problem lying'). Eshel is the symptom. Netanyahu is the problem. Netanyahu might keep his mouth shut, but we definitely won't."
Addressing the controversial quote, Eshel said Tuesday that he did not think that all women were liars. The former PM chief of staff stressed that in saying "women have no problem lying," he only referred to the women who "have been attacking him in the past few days, while weaving lies about things that never happened."
Eshel's statement added that he "respects any honest person, men and women alike."
'Should not assume an influential position'
The Israel Women's Network executive director Galit Deshe told Ynet that "We see the prime minister, the attorney general and the civil service commissioner as responsible for the protection of the rule of the law, of morality and of women's right to safety, in the workplace and outside it. Bringing Natan Eshel back in this revolving door, over and over again, directly hinders women's safety and the State's moral standards.
"Mr. Eshel claims to have been subjected to injustice and that he was not convicted of what he is accused. It is however only fitting that someone who admitted to improper behavior… would understand that he no longer belongs in any public move that has any effect on the country's agenda."
According to The Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, "Natan Eshel continues to harm women. It is impossible that he would return to public office." A representative of the center stressed that Eshel abused his power while in office and "should not assume an influential position as if nothing happened."
Shula Keshet, executive director of the Achoti women's movement, added that "It is well known that Eshel's deal stipulated that he be permanently banned from public activity."
Eshel resigned his post as PM chief of staff on March, after admitting in a plea bargain to improper behavior toward an employee in the Prime Minister's Office.
12 sept 2012
No rape charge for Moti Malka
Kiryat Malachi mayor will not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence; still facing indecent act charges
12 sept 2012
House of horrors: 21 years of rape, abuse
Indictment filed Wednesday at Tel Aviv District Court exposes father, mother who abused, sexually assaulted their daughters over 21 year period.
According to an indictment filed Wednesday, three sisters were repeatedly raped by their father for the past 21 years. Though the mother knew what the father was doing to three of her four daughters, the indictment stated that not only did she keep silent, but also abused her daughters herself.
The father sexually abused his daughters ever since they were little girls and through to adolescence. When one of the daughters described to her mother what the father was doing to her, confessing it was painful and unpleasant, the mother dismissed her saying: "It's ok, he does that to me too."
The indictment further stated that the mother made a habit of locking her daughters in the bathroom, sticking their heads in the toilet and flushing, and threatened to use an iron on their faces.
Apparently the father also peeped on his daughters in the shower on a regular basis. The State Prosecutor's Office obtained evidence from therapists who have recounted the daughters' testimonies.
The prosecution asked that the court extend the remand of the father until legal proceedings against him are completed, and that a restraining order be issued against the mother, keeping her away from her city of residence.
Relating to the father, the indictment noted that "the defendant's actions during the years in question were made by use of force, or threats of force, and in a manner that did not allow the complainants to express any resistance. The defendant executed his assaults while abusing the naivety of the minors, his parental authority, their fear of him, and their trust in him."
As for the mother, the indictment stated that "starting 1989, the mother knew that the father was sexually assaulting the complainants, and assisted him with carrying out his assaults by abandoning her duty to help the complainants, whether by taking them away from the defendant, or by informing the police or the authorities of his abuse so that they can help the complainants; all the while knowing that her actions, or lack there of, are most probably helpful to the father."
12 sept 2012
No rape charge for Moti Malka
Kiryat Malachi mayor will not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence; still facing indecent act charges.
The Southern District Prosecutor's Office announced Wednesday that subject to a hearing, Kiryat Malachi Mayor Moti Malka would be indicted on two counts of indecent acts against two complainants and a count of bribery for taking bribes from contractors employed by the municipality.
Sources close to Malka said in response: "Just as we said from day one, and as Malka repeatedly told police investigators, there were (sexual) relations but they were consensual and we are happy that the prosecution has realized that things are not as bad as some people tried to paint them."
The prosecution said in response that the case was recently reviewed and that various additions to the case were included. They also noted that several meetings were held with State Prosecutor Moshe Lador who will hold Malka's hearing.
The prosecutor's office explained that they decided that Malka, who was accused of raping two other women, would not be indicted for rape due to insufficient evidence.
Statute of limitations means that an additional count of indecent acts was removed from the indictment. Moreover, the prosecution decided to close the case against Malka's deputy, Yossi Sulimani due to lack of evidence.
The prosecutor's office stated: "As in other cases in this delicate sphere, the prosecution took the complex considerations which must be taken into account in assessing the events and the testimonies of the involved parties regarding these events."
The statement further noted that: "after a rigorous examination of the case, it was decided – among other reasons, for considerations which naturally, cannot be divulged to the public – that in light of the evidentiary material, there is no room to file an indictment against Mr. Malka on these two matters, due to a lack of reasonable chance of conviction."
Malka was arrested after a covert which began after the police were tipped off regarding financial improprieties and sexual harassment in city hall.
The investigation also revealed that they were embroiled in a bribery scheme involving fixed municipal bids.
Initially, the woman refused to file a police complaint, fearing she would be subjected to even more abuse.
- 9 apr 2012
4 indicted for sex trafficking, pandering
Two Bat Yam residents charged with bringing Ukrainian women to Israel to work in prostitution; two others indicted for running brothels.
Three men and a woman were indicted Monday at the Tel Aviv District Court for various sex trafficking and pandering changes.
According to the prosecution, Oleg Zaberski, 35, and his accomplice, Olga Fisher, 29, both Bat Yam residents, brought Ukrainian women to Israel to work in prostitution. Zaberski promised the women through a mediator they could keep half of what they earned for having sex with clients, and instructed them to tell the immigration authorities that they are visiting a relative – Fisher, who would pick them up at the airport.
The women were then forced to see eight or nine clients a day; when one refused to have sex with a customer, Zaberski fined her and made her have intercourse with the man, who injured her.
The complainants have since left Israel.
'Indictment is groundless'
Zaberski's charges include human trafficking, assault and pandering. Fisher is being indicted for aiding and abetting human trafficking and related charges.
"Prima facie, the indictment clearly indicates that my client had nothing to do with sex trafficking, and she has no ties to the scheme described in the indictment," Fisher's lawyer, Eyal Ohayon said. "Her role is confined to the innocent act of picking up one of the women from the airport."
Attorneys Shahar Hetzroni and Tamir Sananes, who represent Zaberski, said in response: "The indictment appears groundless, and the defendant denies all the charges."
Meanwhile charges were pressed against Yaakov Malka, 36, an Eilat resident and Vachislav Magnizer, 40, of Rishon Letzion, for running brothels in Tel Aviv. The two allegedly employed Israeli and foreign nationals as prostitutes. After incurring heavy gambling debts, the two decided to expand the operation and traffic a large number of women from Ukraine to Israel.
They are being indicted for conspiring to commit sex trafficking and pandering violations, among other charges.
6 sep 2012, 14:15 , Respect -
Maria 9 mei 2012
Kiryat Malachi City officials implicated in sex scandal
Senior officials in southern city's municipality suspected of rape, extortion and bribery.
Several city officials in Kiryat Malachi were arrested Wednesday in connection with an ongoing case involving rape, extortion and intimidation, bribery, fraud and breach of trust.
The investigation, which was covert prior to the arrests, is headed by the police Financial Fraud Unit Commander Maj.-Gen. Alon Grossman.
The investigation began after the police were tipped off regarding financial improprieties and sexual harassment in city hall.
The suspects were linked to a series of grave sexual offenses committed against a female City employee.
The investigation also revealed that they were embroiled in a bribery scheme involving fixed municipal bids.
Police Investigations and Intelligence Division Chief Maj.-Gen.Yoav Segalovich was briefed on the case and sanctioned the arrests.
'Scandal shockingly extensive'
According to available details, the suspects subjected the woman to sexual abuse for prolonged period of time.
The police suspect some of the encounters were filmed in order to be used as leverage in future extortion attempts.
"The extent of this case is shocking," a police source said, adding that the deeper the police investigate, "They more it become apparent that many people within city hall knew what was going on."
The police have been able to ascertain that the woman was forced to have sex with her superior in various places in city hall, as well as in several other places.
She was also subjected to sexual abuse by a second City official, who also served as her superior.
The suspects will be arraigned on Wednesday afternoon at the Rishon Lezion Magistrate's Court.
The woman refused to file a police complaint at first, fearing she would be subjected to even more abuse.
Ynet learned that the police are now trying to turn a senior city official, who is a close associate of the suspects, into a witness for the prosecution.
"I don't know what's worse – the fact that this poor women was taken advantage of so brutally, or that fact the so many people knew what was going on and did nothing to stop it," a police source said.
Kiryat Malachi mayor suspected of raping employee
According to suspicions, Moti Malka and other top city officials sexually abused employee for prolonged period of time; mayor allegedly extorted sex from another woman in exchange for tax discounts.
Kiryat Malachi Mayor Moti Malka has had his remand extended for eight days on Wednesday after being arrested on suspicion of committing a series of sexual crimes against a female employee of the municipality.
Malka is accused of raping, sexually harassing and sodomizing the woman. He is also suspected of extorting a city council member who accepted bribes from a contractor who provides services for the municipality.
Another seven suspects, including the mayor's son, have also been arrested in connection with the charges.
During Wednesday's court hearing, a police representative said Malka also extorted sex from a single mother in exchange for a discount on the woman's city taxes and accepted bribes from a contractor, who allowed the mayor to use one of his apartments for his sexual encounters.
A gag order on the investigation was lifted Wednesday morning.
Police suspect the mayor and a number of other senior city officials sexually abused the employee over a prolonged period of time and even filmed some of the acts for extortion purposes.
According to police, the employee was forced to have sexual intercourse with the mayor and another top city official.
According to suspicions, the acts were committed in the home of one of the officials, who apparently had a hidden camera installed to film the encounters use the footage to extort another official and the victim herself.
Earlier, the city officials in Kiryat Malachi were arrested on suspicion of rape, extortion and intimidation, bribery, fraud and breach of trust.
The investigation, which was covert prior to the arrests, is headed by the police Financial Fraud Unit Commander Maj.-Gen. Alon Grossman.
The investigation began after the police were tipped off regarding financial improprieties and sexual harassment in city hall.
The investigation also revealed that they were embroiled in a bribery scheme involving fixed municipal bids.
Initially, the woman refused to file a police complaint, fearing she would be subjected to even more abuse.
6 sep 2012, 14:15 , Respect -
Maria 10 mei 2012
Mayor suspected of rape stood by Katsav
During former president's rape trial, the Kiryat Malachi mayor said he hoped Katsav would be proven innocent.
Residents of the city of Kiryat Malachi may have been feeling a sense of déjà-vu on Wednesday as six months after former President Moshe Katsav, a local, was sent to prison for seven years on rape charges, their current mayor, Moti Malka was also under suspicion of serious sexual offences. The offences include rape, assault and sexual extortion.
The Katsav and Malka families did not have the warmest relationship mainly because Malka deposed Leor Katsav, the former president's brother from his position of mayor. Nonetheless, the current mayor did not hesitate to state on camera that he hoped Katsav would be proven innocent.
"I'm not here to give legitimization to these actions if there were any," he said at the time. "I'm more concerned with the fate of the State of Israel and the honor of the institution of president. I am also concerned for the residents of Kiryat Malachi, who so loved and esteemed him (the president)."
Malka has had his remand extended for eight days on Wednesday after being arrested on suspicion of committing a series of sexual crimes against a female employee of the municipality.
Malka is accused of raping, sexually harassing and sodomizing the woman. He is also suspected of extorting a city council member who accepted bribes from a contractor who provides services for the municipality.
Just over a month ago Malka threw harsh accusations at another council member, Yossi Hadad and told him: "I saved you from rape you piece of garbage. Rape. Your raped someone," Malka shouted at Hadad who has not been implicated in the current investigation.
Malka is not the only one of Katsav's former colleagues to find himself in Katsav's situation, Yosef Sulimani, a Kiryat Malachi council member is also suspected of sexual offenses.
6 sep 2012, 14:15 , Respect -
Maria 10 mei 2012
Head of massive prostitution ring gets 18 years in prison
Saban in court
Rami Saban and three accomplices who headed one of 'most extensive human-trafficking rings in Israel's history' jailed and ordered to compensate victims. Prosecution: Court sent strong message.
"We've yet to see a case that compares in its severity to Rami Saban's activity," Tel Aviv District Court Judge Khaled Kabub said Thursday before sentencing the head of a massive human-trafficking ring to 18 years and seven months in prison.
The court also ordered Saban to pay each of the 13 complainants NIS 15,000 (about $4,000) and fined him an additional NIS 150,000 ($40,000).
Four months ago Saban and three of his accomplices were convicted of trafficking hundreds of women into Israel for prostitution.
Justice Kaboub called the operation “one of the most complex and extensive human-trafficking affairs to be uncovered in recent years, if not ever."
David Moraidi, one of the accomplices, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to pay nine of the complainants a total of NIS 100,000 ($26,000). Yaakov Moraidi was sentenced to six years in prison and ordered to pay the complainants NIS 5,000 ($1,300). He was also fined NIS 60,000 (about $16,000).
Shmuel Malka, the third accomplice, was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay the complainants NIS 15,000 ($4,000). He was also slapped with a NIS 20,000 ($5,300) fine.
According to the indictment, the defendants smuggled hundreds of women into Israel through the border with Egypt. They used a network which located hundreds of young women in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and Uzbekistan.
The court said the suspects received between $5,000-$7,000 for each woman they sold to an escort service in Israel, depending on her physical appearance. The three key suspects are alleged to have pocketed millions of shekels each.
Eight men were indicted in March 2009 in connection with the human trafficking ring, but two of them became state witnesses as part of a plea bargain and linked Saban to the other suspects. Avi Yanai, Saban's business partner, was sentenced by a Russian court to 18 years in prison for his role in the operation.
Some of the women, the verdict said, were imprisoned and abused.
The court also said some of the defendants owned and operated 12 brothels in Tel Aviv and Ramat Gan between 1999 and 2004, and also operated a phone sex line between 2005 and 2006.
Saban was convicted of pandering, conspiracy to commit a crime, operating a brothel, forgery and money laundering.
Saban, the court said in the verdict, "was at the top of a pyramid of criminal and disgraceful activity. Words cannot describe the cynicism and apathy with which the defendants, headed by Saban, treated the woman.
"Nothing deters him (Saban) – not prior convictions or lengthy jail sentences," Justice Kaboub wrote.
A representative of the Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office said the court "sent a strong message to Israel's citizens that they will be severely punished even if they commit human-trafficking offences outside the country's borders."
Rita Chaikin of the Isha L'Isha (Woman to Woman) organization said she hoped the verdict would deter human traffickers. "It is important to understand that women who have been trafficked into Israel did not do so out of their own free will, but out of terrible distress," she said.
6 sep 2012, 14:15 , Respect -
Maria 20 mei 2012
2 women from north reportedly raped after night out
Suspects allegedly chased away women's dates, raped victims in woods in Ramat Yishai.
Another rape case shakes Israel as two women from Israel's north reported being sexually assaulted in the Ramat Yishai area. Residents of a nearby village are suspected of threatening the women's dates, chasing them away and raping the two. One suspect, from Manshia Zabda, has been arrested and remanded in custody until Thursday.
First reported by Channel 10 News, the incident took place at around 2 am on Sunday. The two women were out with their dates in the Ramat Yishai area and later took a car to a nearby grove.
According to the police, at this stage the two suspects arrived at the scene and chased the two men away with threats. They got into a vehicle parked in the area, and raped the two women. The suspects used the car, which was later found in a nearby village, to flee the area.
After canvassing the area, police arrested a suspect in his 20s who was remanded in custody. The women's dates were questioned and released. Police said that no weapon was used to threaten the two. The investigation is still ongoing.
A paramedic who treated the women, said they were both very confused. "They were quite shocked by the event and we had to convince them to be taken to hospital."
6 sep 2012, 14:16 , Respect -
Maria 21 mei 2012
Suspicion: High-tech exec sexually harassed children online
Forty-year-old pedophile suspected of harassing hundreds of children online; suspect pretended to be young girl, convinced kids to send him naked pictures, perform indecent acts.
A 40-year-old high-tech executive from central Israel was arrested on suspicion of sexually harassing hundreds of young children aged 10-13 online over the past four years.
The suspect, who is known to the police as a pedophile, confessed to the acts during an interrogation, and claimed that he has a problem that must be treated. Pedophilic material was also uncovered on his computer.
The Kfar Saba Magistrate's Court extended the suspect's remand by eight additional days. The court has issued a gag order over the suspect's identity following his attorney's request.
The suspect, a father of three, allegedly built up a network of false identities, entered social chat rooms and pretended to be a young girl in order to connect with young children.
During his conversation with the underage children, the suspect convinced them to send him photos of themselves naked and perform indecent acts. The police further suspect that the 40-year-old man convinced the children to have virtual sex with him.
During his interrogation, the suspect claimed that he never met with any of the children, or spoke to them on the phone.
Authorities were alerted to the suspect's online activities, following a complaint that was filed with the police. With the help of a special Interpol unit which specializes in locating pedophiles, the suspect was caught.
The suspect's computer revealed a messenger program with over one thousand underage contacts on it. Police sources have said that they are trying to locate the suspect's other victims.
The suspect was arrested at his work place at a high-tech company. Following his arrest, he tried to commit suicide, but police officers managed to prevent him from taking his life. He was then taken for psychiatric evaluation where it was determined that he is dangerous to himself.
During the suspect's hearing, his attorney claimed that he served as a volunteer in the IDF's Intelligence unit for many years. He further said that the suspect works as a senior high-tech executive and that his acquaintances are all in total shock. "He's in a terrible mental state," said his attorney.
Judge Merav Ben Ari ruled that the man is suspected of committing indecent acts and was in possession of pedophilic materials, and therefore can not be released at this point of the investigation. "The number of potential victims in this case is large, and even if the police don't manage to reach all of them, it does not mean the truth cannot be found," Ben Ari said.
6 sep 2012, 14:16 , Respect -
Maria 1 juni 2012
Victim Speaks Out in Orthodox Jewish Sex Abuse Case
(2:25) Victim Speaks Out in Orthodox Jewish Sex Abuse Case
Orthodox Sex Abuse Family: They tried to Shut Us Up with Chivas Regal
BROOKLYN, NY (PIX11)--
The family of a Brooklyn man being treated for drug addiction in California traces his problems back to sexual abuse by a yeshiva teacher, when he was just 9 years old. "I do recall the rabbi being over here, trying to hush up my dad," Yosef Werner--the abuse survivor's brother--told PIX 11 Friday.
20 years ago, Daniel "Benji" Werner came home from the Yeshiva of Brooklyn one day and started confiding in his mother at their Midwood home. "He told me the rabbi was touching him," Yehudis Werner told PIX. "And I said, 'What??!!"
Benji Werner told his mother the teacher would call him up to the front of the class, take the boy behind the desk, place Benji on his lap, and then put his hands in the boy's pants and molest him.
Mrs. Werner said she called her husband, Aaron, and he started contacting other parents from Benji's class. She told PIX several parents had heard the same thing from their children. Soon after, she said the family received calls from religious leaders. "They called up my husband and said 'if you continue to call parents, we'll make your name mud.'"
Yehudis Werner told PIX that because the family with eight children had recently emigrated to Brooklyn from Israel, they didn't want to rock the boat back then by going to police.
The Werner family decided to talk to PIX 11 now, because of recent publicity surrounding the District Attorney's office and how it's handled sexual abuse cases in the Orthodox Jewish community. The Kings Country District Attorney, Charles Hynes, told reporters this week he's ready to put handcuffs on any religious leader who threatens witnesses in the ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods.
Back in 1992, Benji Werner's parents took him out of the yeshiva and transferred him to a school on the lower East Side of Manhattan. But within a couple of years, Yosef Werner recalls his kid brother was getting into trouble, at the age of 11. "I know he was popping Ecstasy pills at a very early stage," Yosef Werner told PIX.
From rehab in California, Benji Werner told PIX 11 by phone Friday, "I basically isolated myself. I was depressed. After two years in my new school, one of the kids introduced me to marijuana. I smoked it and it would deaden my feelings." Werner acknowledged he later took Ecstasy and acid.
Through tears, Benji Werner's mother told PIX, "My only regret? I wish I got him counseling at the time." She told PIX her son tells her not to feel so badly. "He said, 'At least you did better than other parents. You put me in a new school.'" Yehudis Werner said she recently told her son, "Benji, thank you for confiding in me."
When PIX 11 contacted Yeshiva of Brooklyn Friday, a man who answered the phone said he was the principal. When I identified myself and asked if Benji's rabbi was still working at the yeshiva, the man told me, "No, he is no longer here." When I asked why, he responded, "None of your business. This is a private school."
Six years ago, Benji Werner and his brother paid a visit to the Kings County District Attorney's office. But Benji Werner was already 24 years old, so too much time had passed; under state law, there could be no prosecution, because of the statute of limitations.
Yosef Werner, a teacher, said he was working with a liason in the Orthodox Jewish community to get an apology from Benji's old teacher. But it never happened. "I did get a bottle of Chivas Regal from this individual who was trying to bribe me to shut my mouth up," Werner said.
Werner's father, Aaron, is dead now, and Yosef Werner said Friday, "I want people to see this story, because my father wanted this to come out in the 1990's."
When PIX 11 asked Benji Werner if he will get over his trauma, he replied, "Yes, I will, because I'm talking about it now. For years, I didn't talk."
Benji Werner expects to be in rehab for at least another, three months.
6 sep 2012, 14:17 , Respect -
Maria 17 juni 2012
'Pedophile CEO' charged with multiple sex offences
Indictment filed against 41-year-old high-tech executive who used internet to convince minors to perform indecent acts, acts of sodomy.
A 41-year-old high-tech executive has been charged with a line of serious sexual offences involving minors on Sunday. A 44-page indictment filed with the Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court lists 33 counts based on the testimonies of female and male teenagers. The prosecution noted there is evidence for dozens of additional acts.
In one of the cases described in the indictment, the defendant solicited a 13-year-old boy to perform indecent acts and acts of sodomy on his 11-year-old sister.
Posing as sexually experienced teenage girl, the defendant victimized dozens of teenagers and convinced them to perform indecent acts as well as acts of rape and sodomy on camera on various online chat rooms.
At his requests, the victims would send the defendant photos of themselves and he in turn offered to teach them about sexual and physical development. He guided the underage girls on how to touch and gratify themselves.
According to the indictment, the defendant also sent and encouraged the victims to watch pornographic photos and fils, which featured minors, among others.
The affair was uncovered after one the father of one the girls' checked her computer and came across an inappropriate chat of a sexual nature.
According to the indictment, the defendant corresponded with the victims at his home and his office and during and after work hours.
A father of three, the defendant lied to his wife, children, employees and employers to maintain his activity.
6 sep 2012, 14:18 , Respect -
Maria 20 juni 2012
Report: Israel steps up battle on sex trafficking
US State Department notes improvement in Israel's human trafficking prevention, but says Jewish state still plagued with abuse.
WASHINGTON – More than 42,000 adults and children who were kept as slaves, forced into prostitution or otherwise trafficked were discovered by authorities around the world in 2011, according to a report released by the US State Department on Tuesday. But the staggering figure was just a fraction of the estimated number of people who fall victims to human trafficking each year, a figure that is estimated to reach 800,000.
According to the report, Israel has improved its sex trafficking prevention efforts, as well as its treatment of people who are trafficked. This year's document ranks Israel in the topmost tier of nations, which means the government has fulfilled the minimum standards for the elimination of modern slavery.
"The Israeli government improved its system of identifying and providing medical care for these victims, who are trafficked and abused before they arrive in Israel," the document read.
The report cited isolated cases of women from the former Soviet Union, China, and South America who are subjected to forced prostitution in Israel, but noted that the number of women affected by the phenomenon continues to decline since the Jewish state passed an anti-trafficking law in 2006.
"The Israeli government continued to grapple with the influx of foreign migrants and asylum seekers arriving from the Sinai, primarily from Eritrea, Sudan, and to a lesser extent Ethiopia, many of whom were victims of torture prior to their entry into Israel, and some of whom were identified as victims of trafficking," the report said.
"NGOs noted the government’s improved procedures in Israeli prisons to identify trafficking victims among this large group of migrants and referral of victims to service providers. The government continued to improve its system of identifying victims and providing medical treatment, even to those victims who were abused and trafficked prior to arriving in Israel."
Israel has asserted that it does not have the ability to aid a large number of trafficking victims who arrive from Egypt.
'Israel – destination for modern slaves'
The report also stresses, however, that that the modern slavery problem is alive and well in the Jewish state. Israel is described as a destination country for people subjected to forced labor and sex trafficking.
According to the document, in addition to the African migrants who illegally cross into Israel from Sinai, many legal migrant workers who come from Thailand, China, Nepal, the Philippines, India and other countries "face conditions of forced labor, including through such practices as the unlawful withholding of passports, restrictions on movement, inability to change or otherwise choose one’s employer, nonpayment of wages, threats, sexual assault, and physical intimidation."
Furthermore, many labor recruitment agencies in require workers to pay exorbitant recruitment fees to secure jobs in Israel, ranging from $4,000 to $20,000, a practice that contributes to forced labor.
Syria's ranking has dropped to Tier 3, the lowermost group, and could therefore face sanctions imposed by the US. According to the report, the Syrian government "is not making significant efforts" to eliminate human trafficking within its territory. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Myanmar have bettered their efforts to battle modern slavery.
'Raped victims go untreated'
Alongside the release of the report, the US has chosen to honor several individuals who devoted their lives to fighting modern slavery. One of this year's recipients was Azezet Habtezghi Kidane, an Eritrean nun volunteering at Physicians for Human Rights-Israel. According to the NGO, Kidane was sent to volunteer in Israel at a critical time and was a key element in retrieving testimonies from refugees who fell victim to torture in Sinai.
Kidane said that over the past two years she had interviewed many of asylum seekers and has heard hundreds of heartbreaking stories of extortion, imprisonment, torture and death.
The Knesset's Subcommittee on the Trafficking in Women convened Tuesday to discuss the horrors experienced by asylum seekers who arrive in Israel. According to data presented by Shimon Bibas, who heads Saharonim Prison, 36 pregnant women were detained at the facility this year, five of whom were pregnant due to rape. Fifteen were sexually assaulted while crossing Sinai on their way to Israel; of them, 13 underwent prolonged sexual abuse.
Of the men who arrived at Saharonim this year, 19 were starved, 35 were severely beaten and six were lashed with a whip. In total, 6,000 men and 2,500 women crossed the border into Israel since March.
Also according to the data, 15 young women who were raped before arriving in Israel from Sinai remain untreated at the detention facility due to lack of space at the Maagan Shelter for trafficking victims.
6 sep 2012, 14:19 , Respect -
Maria 16 juli 2012
Report: 30% of sex crimes target minors
Rape crisis centers, police say one-third of sexual assaults reported in 2011 involved children under 12; nearly 20% of attacks took place in school.
The Knesset's Committee on the Status of Women is set to debate a new report on how the school system deals with sexual violence, Ynet learned Monday.
The report states that 30% out of the crisis centers' 40,000 reports of sexual assaults in 2011 involved children under the age of 12. Almost half of the reports were of rape or attempted rape, some 25% were reports of incest and 20% were of sexual harassment.
The report also includes police statistics about sexual violence: In 2011, 4,563 sexual assault complaints were filed, 47% of them by minors.
In 20% of the cases, the suspect was a minor. In 18% of the cases, the assaults allegedly took place on school grounds.
"It splits your life to the 'before' and 'after,'" Anat Eldar, a rape survivor who now works as an educator, said.
The school system, she added, plays a crucial rule in detecting such cases by giving victims the necessary assistance and breaking through the wall of silence.
Michal Rozin, executive director of the Association of Rape Crisis Centers in Israel, said that the report was "proof that despite the growing number of complaints and the scope of the crisis centers' activities, not enough resources are allocated to preventing such crimes and to assist in the rehabilitation of the victims.
"In light of these disconcerting figures, we urged authorities to recognize sex crimes as acute national problem that must be fought."
6 sep 2012, 14:19 , Respect -
Maria 26 juli 2012
Jerusalem Police chief suspected of sexual harassment
Commander Niso Shaham placed on leave following IAB probe into alleged sexual misconduct vis-à-vis female subordinates
Jerusalem District Police Commander Niso Shaham has been placed on leave following an Internal Affairs Bureau investigation into sexual harassment allegations made against him.
Shaham is also suspected of allegedly imposing sexual intercourse on female subordinates.
The investigation was under a gag order, which the court lifted at noon on Thursday.
Police Commissioner Yohanan Danino, who ordered Shaham be placed on leave, convened the Jerusalem Police brass for a special briefing on Thursday afternoon, following the news of Shaham's involvement in the case.
"I have full confidence in the officers of the Jerusalem District Police, who faithfully and tirelessly perform their duties," he said after the meeting.
Jerusalem Periphery Police Commander Nissim Edri has also been questioned in the case and placed on leave.
IAB believes that Edri, who was questioned under advisement, was aware of Shaham's misconduct, but failed to report it or address it according to police protocol.
Attorney Zion Amir, who represents Edri, said that his client was not involved in a cover-up: "One of the complainants told him of the events in confidence. His behavior was beyond reproach. He is cooperating with the investigation and has asked to be placed on leave to better facilitate it. "
Justice Ministry officials told Ynet that both officers have been cooperating with the investigation and that both asked to be place on leave pending a decision in their matter.
The investigation was reportedly launched after a third officer – disgruntled over a denied a promotion – reported Shaham to IAB.
Internal Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch has been briefed on the case.
Jerusalem District Police Deputy Commander Manny Yitzhaki has been named as Shaham's replacement.
An official police statement said: "The commissioner, after being briefed on the IAB investigation, decided to grant commanders Shaham and Edri's requests for leave.
"The decision to immediately appoint Commander Manny Yitzhaki temporary chief of the Jerusalem Police was made by the commissioner and Internal Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch; and will be in effect pending the investigation's conclusion."
6 sep 2012, 14:19 , Respect -
Maria 3 aug 2012
Suspicion: Shaham committed sex offences against 7 female officers
Jerusalem District Police Commander Niso Shaham interrogated over alleged sexual harassment, indecent acts. Top police officials baffled by decision not to press charges against commander who failed to report misconduct.
Jerusalem District Police Commander Niso Shaham, who is suspected of sexual offences against seven female subordinates, was interrogated for hours by the Police Internal Affairs Bureau (IAB) on Thursday.
Shaham is suspected of sexual harassment, committing an indecent act and imposing sexual intercourse on female subordinates. During his investigation, Shaham claimed that he had consensual relations with one of the complainants.
Meanwhile, the decision not to press criminal charges against Jerusalem Periphery Police Commander Nissim Edri, who failed to report the alleged sexual misconduct of Shaham, stirred controversy among top police officials.
"It's very difficult to understand this decision, especially since this is an officer who is supposed to be the leading authority of everything that has to do with ethics," a senior police officer told Ynet.
According to the officer, "Even a disciplinary offence has far reaching ramifications when dealing with an officer that makes fateful decisions on the lives of other civilians. This somehow undermines the authority of these decisions."
The officer estimated that the affair will not end with punitive disciplinary action alone, saying that "the police commissioner and minister will have something to say about this.
A high ranking female officer told Ynet that "every female officer can turn to the IAB, but many are afraid. They now that senior officers get support, and will be appointed an attorney, while they will be presented as serial complainants and get unwanted media exposure," she said.
According to the officer, the police establishment is not an easy environment for females, who are constantly reminded of the male-dominated hierarchal system of the organization.
"More than 25% of the system is composed of women, but there is not a single female who serves at the rank of a police commander, and those who are deputy commanders mostly serve in administrative positions," she added.
6 sep 2012, 16:11 , Respect -
Maria 5 aug 2012
IDF: Rise in sexual harassment complaints
Number of complaints rises by more than 80% in five years. Official says this could be explained by greater awareness.
The number of complaints of sexual harassment and assault in the IDF has risen by more than 80% in the past five years, Yedioth Ahronoth reported Sunday.
In 2007, IDF Women's Affairs Advisor, Col. Rachel Tevet-Wiesel, received 318 complaints of verbal and physical harassment. In 2011, her office handled 583 complaints. The number of complaints that led to official investigations has climbed from 94 in 2007 to 144 in 2011.
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, the data were published as part of a project advocating women's rights, promoted by the Israeli Movement for Freedom of Information. "The demand for information and transparency is a powerful 'weapon' in social battles such as this, for it discloses real data about what is actually happening," said Alona Winograd, director of the Movement for Freedom of Information, who motioned for disclosure of the information regarding reports of sexual harassment in the IDF.
"The fact that the IDF chose to share this information with the public should set an example to others. As defense organizations are predominantly led by men, it is important that the public knows that women's safety is cared for."
According to a senior officer at the IDF Manpower Directorate, it is hard to determine whether the rise in the number of complaints indicates a rise in the number of cases of sexual harassment, or rather a rise in awareness to the issue and the duty to report.
"The greater number of complaints could be the result of a campaign we've initiated, relating to sexual harassment, and of the fact that we've instructed every commander and soldier who hears about sexual harassment to immediately report it. We have also opened a center for victims of sexual harassment, to offer support," official said.
6 sep 2012, 19:40 , Respect -
Maria 30 aug 2012
Shaham resigns police post amid sex scandal
Month after taking leave over suspected sex offences, Jerusalem District Police chief resigns post at commissioner's urging.
Jerusalem District Police Commander Niso Shaham has agreed to resign his post following suspicions he committed sexual offences against female subordinates. He will be replaced by Southern District chief Yossi Parienti.
A source at the Public Security Ministry told Ynet that Police Commissioner Yohanan Danino had asked Shaham to resign because of the time the investigation into the allegations was taking and the need for someone to act as Jerusalem District Police chief during the High Holidays.
Police Commissioner Yohanan Danino
Shaham is suspected of sexual harassment, committing an indecent act and imposing sexual intercourse on female subordinates. During his investigation, Shaham claimed that he had consensual relations with one of the complainants.
Shaham had taken leave late last month and has been replaced by Major-General Mani Yitzhaki.
Parienti is slated to assume the position in the coming days. It has yet to be announced who will replace him at the Southern District.
Yossi Parienti
The decision not to press criminal charges against Jerusalem Periphery Police Commander Nissim Edri, who failed to report the alleged sexual misconduct of Shaham, stirred controversy among top police officials.
13 sep 2012, 12:57 , Respect -
Maria 6 sept 2012
Air Force instructors suspected of sexually abusing students
IAH high school in Beersheba
Discharged soldiers who served as instructors at IAF preparatory high school suspected of various sexual offences including rape involving nine female students aged 15.
Cleared for publication: Military Police and Israel Police investigators arrested three discharged soldiers in their 20s on suspicion they had sexual intercourse with nine students aged 15 while they served as instructors at the Air Force preparatory high school in Beersheba.
They are suspected of rape, statutory rape, indecent acts and sexual harassment by a person in a position of trust. One of the suspects has been released under restrictions, and the two others have been remanded in custody. The details of the affair were under a gag order which was lifted Thursday.
The victims are still high school students. The investigation suggests some of them were not aware there was anything wrong with their relationships with the instructors.
Police believe there had been no coercion on the part of the suspects, who are suspected of abusing their power. Police also said it is possible more victims will come forward in the future.
The investigation suggests that the suspects had sex with their underage students inside the school, during after-hour tutorials. Investigators believe that while there had been no group sex, those involved were aware of their friends' activities.
Police are looking into several leads, including the possibility the victims were romantically attached to the suspects which prevented them from coming forward.
The affair had been exposed after a student, who wasn't involved in the case, filed a complaint with the IDF ombudsman several weeks ago.
"These are very serious offences," said a high-ranking IAF officer who described the suspects as members of good families.
It is suspected the alleged acts took place last year and possibly even earlier as one of the suspects had been discharged two years ago. The victims are under the care of social services and the school's management.
IAF commander Major-General Amir Eshsel has instructed commanders to hold talks with their soldiers and work to prevent similar cases.