Israel's Former President Avoids Rape Charges

26 February 2008

Occupied Jerusalem: Israel’s former president Moshe Katsav’s plea bargain was upheld by Israel's highest court on Tuesday, allowing him to avoid rape charges and a possible prison term.

The much criticized plea bargain was supported by a panel of five Supreme Court judges who rejected claims that it went easy on Katsav because of his prominent position.

Four former female employees during Katsav’s term accused him of a series of sex crimes, including rape. Katsav who left office in disgrace in June insists he was forced to do so. This plea bargain allows him to escape the most serious charges.

Under this deal, Katsav was only charged with two counts of sexual harassment and was made to resign two weeks before his term was completed.

Since the plea bargain has been accepted, Katsav will receive a suspended sentence that does not consist of jail time.

Upon hearing that the Supreme Court had not taken the rare step in overturning the plea bargain, an attorney for a women’s rights group said, “This is a sad day”.