Doctor Sentenced to Six Years for Rape and Sexual Assault of Patients

The Tel Aviv District Court sentenced Professor Arieh Levin, a 69-year-old pediatric gastroenterologist and former head of the pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition unit at Wolfson Medical Center, to six years in prison on Thursday. Levin pleaded guilty and was convicted as part of a plea deal for raping the mother of one of his patients, indecently assaulting two other patients, and abusing his official position. The prosecution had sought a 13-year sentence.

As part of the plea agreement, Levin will pay NIS 750,000 in compensation to the victims. The Tel Aviv District Prosecutor's Office stated that Levin admitted and was convicted after retracting his denial, based on an amended indictment. His medical license has been permanently revoked.

The prosecution had argued for a 13-year sentence, emphasizing the severe nature of his actions. They highlighted how Levin disgracefully exploited his respected position as a specialist and department head, and the trust placed in him by patients who viewed him as a savior. This allowed him to re-victimize them.

Levin forced himself on women in examination rooms, places where they were most vulnerable. The prosecution noted his lack of compassion for their situations and exploitation of their weakness, indicating a defendant devoid of empathy who targeted the most helpless for his sexual needs. The power imbalance inherent in the doctor-patient relationship, especially with critically ill patients, warrants a severe punishment, they argued.

The prosecution will review the court's ruling and consider its next steps.