Retired Investigator Details Netanyahu Trial Evidence, Cites 'Pig-like Behavior'

Retired Superintendent Eran Kamin testified in the Netanyahu corruption trial, recounting his extensive career in the Israel Police, including leading investigations into Sarah Netanyahu and being involved in the 'Bibi Tours' case. Kamin, who held senior positions such as Deputy Head of the National Fraud Unit and Head of the Investigations Division, detailed his role in handling information that surfaced during the investigation into the Prime Minister's residence, which later became relevant to Case 1000.

During cross-examination by defense attorney Amit Haddad, Kamin discussed the discovery of conversations on the phone of Ari Harow, former chief of staff to Prime Minister Netanyahu, which formed the basis of Case 2000. Kamin stated that the assumption was that a plea deal against Harow led to the exposure of these calls, and he instructed that they be transcribed. He acknowledged that the court order for these calls might have been obtained through his superior.

Haddad also questioned Kamin about a meeting he initiated with journalist Ben Caspit in 2015, prior to the official opening of the investigation. Kamin stated he could not recall the specifics of the conversation but denied discussing investigative methods with Caspit. The defense also presented a transcript of a conversation with Caspit, which Kamin struggled to remember.

The testimony touched upon the "Yitzhaki document," a reported intelligence compilation on Knesset members, and the procedures for opening an investigation against a sitting prime minister, with Kamin distinguishing between preliminary inquiries and formal investigations. Haddad also confronted Kamin with his past public criticisms of Netanyahu and the Likud party, attempting to highlight potential bias.

The trial is set to increase its pace significantly after the Jewish holidays in October, with proceedings scheduled for five days a week, a rate described as unprecedented for current Israeli legal cases. This intensified schedule will require intensive work from the judges, defense attorneys, and prosecutors.