Israel Prison Service Chief Kobi Yaacobi to Face Indictment

The State Prosecutor's Office has decided to indict Kobi Yaacobi, the Commissioner of the Israel Prison Service, on charges of breach of trust and obstruction of justice. The indictment is expected to be filed in the coming weeks.

The case centers on suspicions that Yaacobi leaked information about a covert investigation into the former commander of the Judea and Samaria District, Superintendent Avi Shai Moalem. Yaacobi allegedly informed Moalem about the investigation, thereby exposing its existence.

In April, Yaacobi was informed he would be indicted pending a hearing. He has since raised sharp claims regarding the investigation against him, asserting he possesses evidence that could cast doubt on the investigators' conduct. Specifically, Yaacobi alleged that a police internal affairs investigator involved in the case had an intimate relationship with a key witness.

While the Attorney General requested Yaacobi provide the materials supporting his claims for review, Yaacobi has consistently denied the allegations. His lawyer stated that significant materials requiring examination have been submitted to the legal system. Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has defended Yaacobi, calling the case a "frame-up."

Despite Yaacobi's claims, the State Prosecutor's Office believes they do not alter the decision to indict him at this stage. Concurrently, the investigation into Yaacobi's associates, Superintendent Alona Shoshan and Deputy Commissioner Lior Avudraham, has concluded. The case materials are now with legal officials, and a decision regarding them is anticipated soon.