Murder Suspect's Mother Claims Medical Distress Amid Trial

Linor Sasson, the mother of one of the defendants in the murder of Benyahu Razi, is currently at the center of a controversy regarding her health condition while in detention. Sasson is accused of aiding the perpetrators in escaping after the July murder, which took place in Jerusalem and shocked the nation. Seven individuals have been indicted in connection with the case.

While detained at Neve Tirtza prison, Sasson began complaining of vision problems, headaches, and difficulty walking throughout September. Initially, the Israel Prison Service (IPS) suspected she might be feigning her symptoms, stating that she had been examined by doctors and no immediate medical evacuation was deemed necessary. However, her condition reportedly worsened.

Sasson was eventually transferred to a hospital and admitted on September 22. Her lawyer, Chen Meiri, stated in court that Sasson is experiencing blindness, has trouble standing, and requires assistance with daily activities. According to a medical document shared with the family, a brain tumor was discovered, and Sasson is scheduled for surgery. The IPS disputes claims about the handling of her medical care, asserting that she was evacuated for hospitalization without delay once a specialist determined it was necessary.

In parallel, Sasson's lawyer filed an urgent petition concerning family visits during her hospitalization. The police sought to restrict visits, but Judge Ayala Oren ruled that Sasson's complex health situation warranted more extensive visitation rights. Her mother, daughter, and brother are permitted daily half-hour visits, with extended hours allowed on the day of her surgery. The court also permitted phone calls and brief physical contact, subject to the discretion of the officers on site.

Benyahu Razi was killed in late July in an apartment in Jerusalem's Nachlaot neighborhood. Indictments filed on August 7 allege that the confrontation in the apartment involved knives and other weapons, resulting in Razi's death and injuries to his friend. Sasson's trial for aiding the suspects after the fact is ongoing.