Gynecologist Sentenced to 14 Years for Sexual Assaults

A Tel Aviv District Court has sentenced gynecologist Professor Menachem (Meni) Alkalai to 14 years in prison for 10 counts of fraud-related rape and indecent acts involving nine complainants. The verdict, delivered Thursday, comes more than four years after Ynet exposed his actions.

Alkalai, an urogynecology specialist, was found to have committed criminal acts during medical examinations, exceeding protocols without explicit consent. Expert testimony confirmed that prolonged clitoral massage performed by Alkalai had no legitimate medical purpose. The court determined that Alkalai knowingly and severely deviated from standard gynecological procedures, cynically exploiting the trust placed in him by patients.

During his career, Alkalai served as head of urogynecology at Sheba Medical Center and at Poriya Hospital, while also maintaining private clinics. He was suspended from Sheba but continued to see patients privately. Over 35 women shared their experiences in the initial Ynet investigation, leading to 20 police complaints.

Victims expressed satisfaction with the sentence, viewing it as a significant societal statement against such abuses. Sigal Adam, one of the complainants, stated, "I feel that this war of mine gave me strength; evil people do not deserve to succeed." Another victim, Hani Malul, noted the sentence "creates great unease among doctors in the field" and expressed hope it would deter others. The judges, including Yaron Levy, Ilan Tzur, and Tamar Shonit-Forer, highlighted Alkalai's exploitation of patient trust and his deliberate breach of medical protocols.

Victims urged other women who feel harmed to be strong and report their experiences, emphasizing that justice can be served. The sentence is seen not only as holding Alkalai accountable but also as a deterrent to other medical professionals. The prosecution was led by attorney Mital Mor.