Prosecution Appeals Light Sentence for Former Reality Show Singer Who Severely Injured Parking Attendant
The prosecution is appealing a lenient sentence handed down to 33-year-old Daniel Cohen, who in 2022 severely injured a parking attendant, leaving him permanently disabled. Cohen and his brother parked their car improperly in a Herzliya "Lev Ha'ir" parking lot, blocking traffic. When the 58-year-old attendant, Yigal Hayon, approached to ask them to move the vehicle, Cohen punched him repeatedly in the face. Hayon fell, lost consciousness, and suffered a severe head injury, paralysis of all four limbs, and a spinal cord injury requiring complex surgery. He spent nine months in the hospital and was discharged as a quadriplegic requiring constant care, with significant speech impairment.
Cohen and his brother fled but were identified via security footage. His brother was released, but Daniel was detained. The Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court recently sentenced Cohen to 21 months in prison, minus time served, and a 30,000 shekel fine, as part of a plea deal where he admitted guilt. This sentence, which amounts to less than 1.5 years in prison, has sparked public outrage due to the severity of Hayon's injuries and the perceived leniency of the punishment, especially given the clear video evidence.
The prosecution argues that the lower court did not adequately consider the extent of Hayon's physical, psychological, functional, and financial trauma. They are seeking a four-year prison term, citing that the precedents used by the court involved far less severe harm. The prosecution also highlighted that Cohen's violence occurred while the victim was lawfully performing his duties, with no provocation.
Adding to the public interest, Daniel Cohen is a former contestant on the 2013 Israeli reality singing competition "Eyal Golan Calls You," reaching the finals. His past as a finalist in a popular music show has resurfaced in connection with the assault, with many noting the stark contrast between his former public image and his violent actions. The appeal emphasizes the case's importance for deterrence.
