"I am fining you 300 thousand": Assailant cut a man's ear and threatened to plant a bomb

Tamir Moshe Levi invited a man to his home, ostensibly for a conversation, only to lead him into a nearby garden, assault him with punches and kicks, and use a knife to cut his left ear in half.

According to the court's findings, Levi informed the victim that he was "fining him" 300,000 shekels. He threatened that if the sum was not paid within a week, he would plant an explosive device in the man's car, declaring that "nothing would be left of his bones." The Central District Court in Lod sentenced Levi to five years in prison and ordered him to pay 30,000 shekels in compensation to the victim.

Levi was convicted of aggravated assault and extortion by force. The court heard that the incident stemmed from grievances regarding the victim's relationship with a relative of Levi. While at home with his brother-in-law, who was a friend of the victim, Levi used the friend's phone to lure the man to his residence.

Upon the victim's arrival, Levi led him to a garden for a "private conversation." There, he interrogated the man before launching a violent attack. Despite the victim pleading for mercy and warning that he had previously suffered a stroke, Levi continued to beat him, threatening to "cut his face."

During the sentencing phase, the prosecution requested an 11-year prison term, citing Levi's extensive criminal record, which includes 12 prior convictions for violence, weapons, and property offenses. While Levi had served approximately five years in prison in the past, his defense noted that his last conviction occurred in 2011.

"I haven't gotten into trouble for many years"

Levi's defense attorney argued that the defendant had turned his life around. Levi himself addressed the court, stating: "You are dealing with a 50-year-old man. I haven't gotten into trouble for many years; I tried. I just want to get my life back, my family... I just want to rehabilitate my life."

Judge Dana Marshak-Marom characterized the crime as a "planned and calculated event" that began by luring the victim "cunningly." She noted that Levi failed to accept responsibility for his actions and that his defense strategy focused on slandering the victim. Ultimately, the judge sentenced Levi to five years in prison, minus time served, along with suspended sentences and the mandatory compensation payment.