Shfela Resident Arrested on Suspicion of Sexually Exploiting a Minor
A 24-year-old suspect allegedly posed as a minor to engage in sexual relations with a 13-year-old girl. The victim contacted the police herself, leading to the suspect's arrest. The court has extended his detention by three days.
The Magistrate's Court in Rishon LeZion has extended the detention of a 24-year-old resident of the Shfela region by three days. The suspect is accused of posing as a minor to establish contact with a 13-year-old girl and allegedly engaging in sexual relations with her on multiple occasions.
The court reached this decision after determining that there is reasonable suspicion against the suspect, citing both the danger he poses and concerns regarding potential obstruction of the investigation.
According to police reports, the suspect misled the victim about his age. A police representative noted that the minor, who has not yet turned 14, contacted the authorities herself shortly after their meeting. During interrogation, the suspect confirmed that he knew the minor.
Defense attorney Dmitry Bernstein, representing the suspect through the Public Defender's Office, stated that while the two had met several times, his client denies any sexual involvement. At the conclusion of the hearing, both parties accepted the court's proposal to extend the detention until Tuesday.
Judge Sarit Abdian stated in her ruling:
"After reviewing the investigation file, I am convinced that there is reasonable suspicion that the suspect committed the acts attributed to him. There are sufficient grounds for detention due to the danger posed by the suspect and the fear of obstruction of justice."
