Ashkelon Man Convicted of Brutal Club Attack on Neighbor
An Ashkelon court convicted 52-year-old Yossi Beniluz of brutally assaulting his neighbor with a club, causing severe fractures and missing teeth. The judge rejected the defense's claims, with sentencing scheduled for a later date.
A 52-year-old resident of Ashkelon, Yossi Beniluz, has been convicted of a brutal assault on his neighbor, inflicting severe injuries. The incident, which took place roughly three years ago following a prior neighborly dispute, began when Beniluz pounded on the victim's apartment door with a club while issuing threats. After the neighbor contacted the police and was instructed to file a complaint at the local station, he exited the building unaware that Beniluz was waiting outside wearing tefillin.
Brutal Attack and Severe Injuries
As the victim stepped outside, Beniluz ambushed him from behind, striking him repeatedly with the club on the head, arms, and legs. Even after the victim fell to the ground, the assailant continued to beat and kick him violently. During the struggle, the victim managed to grab the tefillin from Beniluz's head, which further enraged the attacker. Bystanders called Magen David Adom paramedics, who rushed the injured man to Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon. Doctors diagnosed him with extensive trauma, including broken and missing teeth, and multiple fractures across his head, limbs, and bones.
Court Verdict and Legal Proceedings
Beniluz was arrested shortly after the assault and subsequently charged with assault causing bodily harm, making threats, and property damage for smashing the door. During the trial, defense attorney Yossi Daga argued that Beniluz was actually the victim and that the neighbor sustained injuries in a separate incident. However, Ashkelon Magistrate's Court Judge Zohar Dolev Lehman firmly rejected the defense's version, citing overwhelming evidence. Beniluz was convicted on all counts, and his sentencing is scheduled for a later date.
