Man Who Caught Car Burglar Now Faces Assault Charges

A business owner from northern Israel, identified only as Y', is facing assault charges after apprehending a man attempting to break into his car. The incident occurred late at night near Tiberias when Y' heard a loud noise and discovered the suspect inside his vehicle. Armed with a screwdriver, Y' subdued the suspect and called the police. The apprehended individual, who claimed to be mentally ill and seeking a cigarette, admitted to the attempted break-in. Security footage corroborated Y's account.

However, the situation took a turn when the alleged burglar accused Y' of assault, despite not sustaining any injuries. The police subsequently launched an investigation and Y' was charged with threats and assault. Y' expressed distress over the legal proceedings, stating, "It's not the burglar suing me, it's the State of Israel against me." He described himself and his wife as "the most normal people there are," struggling to comprehend how they became suspects after being victims of a crime.

Y's defense attorney, Moti Melnik of the Public Defense system, highlighted that Y' has no prior criminal record and was only trying to protect his property. He emphasized that Y' cooperated fully with the investigation.

The police stated that suspicion of a property crime does not permit violence against a suspect. In this case, separate indictments were filed against both individuals. According to the police, evidence suggests Y' threatened and assaulted the other man twice, even though the suspect was not attempting to flee, leading to the indictment against Y'.