Israeli Police Recommend Charges Against Former Acre Mayor in Bribery Case

Israel's National Fraud Investigation Unit (YAHA) has concluded its investigation into the former mayor of Acre, Amichai Ben Shlomo, and his deputy, Itamar Sunino. The case file, which has been under the supervision of the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office since its inception, has been transferred for review with sufficient evidence to indict both men, along with numerous other suspects, on serious charges including bribery, election bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. The investigation revealed significant findings against Ben Shlomo and others, who are suspected of attempting to manipulate the local elections held in February 2024 to ensure Ben Shlomo's victory through illicit means. Evidence suggests Ben Shlomo's election campaign allegedly used vote brokers, including a local businessman, to distribute cash to voters and promise public positions, tender advantages, and building permits. Ben Shlomo has consistently denied the allegations, attributing them to political rivals.

The revelations led to turmoil within the Acre municipality. Following petitions, the District and Supreme Courts officially invalidated the February 2024 election results due to substantial evidence of improper influence on voters, mandating a rerun of the elections. The Haifa District Court had previously ruled in September 2025 to cancel the mayoral election results based on evidence of election bribery and vote manipulation. Ben Shlomo appealed this decision, but on February 4, 2026, the Supreme Court dismissed his appeal, upholding the cancellation and ordering new elections. With the police investigation complete, the case now rests with the Haifa District Prosecutor's Office to decide whether to file indictments against the former mayor and other involved parties.