Kidnapping Suspect's Detention Extended as New Details Emerge

A court in Petah Tikva extended the detention of a 19-year-old suspect in the kidnapping of 10-year-old Yahli Sofer for the fourth time. The judge allowed the suspect's name, Dar Rehov from Jerusalem, to be published, though a stay was granted pending a potential appeal. The court noted that the central suspicion of kidnapping remains strong, with the evidence against the suspect intensifying.

During a hearing, police revealed that Yahli provided new details to investigators this week, strengthening the case. According to police, the suspect led Yahli into a locked shelter, from which the boy managed to escape while the suspect pursued him. An alert citizen eventually found Yahli wandering in Bnei Brak and alerted the police.

The suspect had previously claimed he found the boy lost and only intended to help him return home. However, since the kidnapping case gained public attention, additional parents have reported similar incidents involving the suspect, alleging harassment, threats, and even the brandishing of a knife.

One such incident reportedly occurred in Hadera months ago, where the suspect is suspected of locating two minors' home and waiting outside, causing them fear. Police presented these new allegations to the court, arguing they indicate a consistent pattern of dangerous behavior, even if not directly overlapping with the kidnapping.

The judge urged the police to complete their investigation and file charges promptly if the evidence warrants it.