At least 22 Haredim Jews were arrested by the police on Monday morning following investigation in sexual molestation of minors and women over the last two years.
The authorities in Jerusalem District had initiated investigations after receving information that ultra-Orthodox elements were covering up sex crimes in the community – following which the police seized documents where tens of alleged attackers names were documented.
The police were attacked by ulta-Orthodox resident in the cities, namely Jerusalem, Beit Shemesh, Betar Ilit and Bnei Brak where arrests were made. The windows of two police cars were shattered by protesters throwing rocks.
Until the official inquiry, the community had been dealing with the matter internally by conduction investigations and outlining punishments. However, the statement by the police said that the suspects continued to live normal lives without major penalties. The offenders were sent for psychological support or exiled.
The police intends to ensure the suspects are taken to trial.
The man, from whom the documents were confiscated, is known as a ‘fixer’ and is currently not under arrest. He has previously testified in sexual offence related cases. According to the police, he compiled and investigated sexual offences with old-world methods that are accepted by the community. He, along with other had their rabbis’ blessing to handle the cases without informing the police.
