Israel police investigate former chief rabbi for ‘indecent act’ with minor

The police in Israel are investigating a former chief rabbi on suspicion of committing an indecent act against a minor under the age of 16, Israeli media reported on Wednesday. Yona Metzger, 71, has previously been convicted of bribery and fraud.

The investigation against the former chief rabbi was initiated by the Fraud Unit of the Tel Aviv District Police following a complaint received from a member of the public.

Metzger was investigated on suspicion of sexual offences in November 2020, but the case was closed by the prosecution. On Tuesday, he was questioned again regarding that case as well as a new complaint received recently. He was released on bail and with restrictive conditions, while the investigation against him will continue.

During his tenure as Chief Rabbi of Israel, between 2003 and 2013, and subsequent to that, Metzger allegedly accepted significant financial benefits from private individuals in exchange for actions related to his position, according to the indictment. These benefits were received on numerous occasions, both during private events and as compensation for his participation in events organised by those providing the benefits. For example, during the wedding of his son in July 2010, financial benefits were allegedly provided.

In a conversation that took place before the wedding between Metzger’s driver and two invited guests, it was agreed that the two individuals would provide a substantial benefit to Metzger in the form of a “gift” for the wedding. Accordingly, a payment of $500,000 was transferred directly to Metzger in ten cash instalments, reported Ynet news site.

As Israel’s Chief Rabbi, Metzger faced allegations of sexual harassment published in the media. Reports at the time included testimonies from men who had met with him and claimed that he had touched them against their will. However, this information was never filed with the police as an official complaint and was not investigated.

READ: Armenian Patriarchate warns Israel intends to confiscate properties in East Jerusalem