Son of Convicted Manager Sued for $600,000 Over Abuse of 10-Year-Old

A civil lawsuit seeking over 2.5 million shekels (approximately $600,000) has been filed against Meir Lifer, the son of convicted manager Malkah Lifer, who was found guilty of sex offenses against her students. Meir Lifer himself was previously convicted of indecent assault against a 10-year-old boy and received a sentence of community service and a 45,000 shekel fine.

The new lawsuit alleges that the sexual assault left the now 13-year-old victim with severe psychological damage, anxiety, and significant difficulties in daily functioning. The claim states the boy's "soul remained wounded, and he became a sad and withdrawn person," experiencing problems in all areas of life, including academics and social interactions. The lawsuit also contends that the assault could impact the boy's future economic prospects, his ability to earn a living, and his need for ongoing assistance and treatment.

According to the lawsuit, the damages extend beyond the immediate emotional suffering, potentially affecting the victim for many years. The filing emphasizes the boy's entitlement to substantial compensation for the "immense pain and suffering" caused by the attack, considering his age, the circumstances, and the lasting harm. The claim asserts that "there is no doubt that in the said circumstances, the plaintiff's life was ruined."

The suit includes claims for medical and therapeutic expenses, travel costs, pain and suffering, future loss of earnings, pension losses, future treatment costs, and assistance from others. It also seeks damages under the law for the prevention of sexual harassment, with the plaintiff arguing that Lifer's conviction for three indecent acts warrants 120,000 shekels in damages for each without proof of loss. The court is also asked to appoint a psychiatric expert, funded by the defendant, to assess the victim's residual psychological disability.

The original indictment, to which Lifer pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal, detailed three indecent acts. Lifer had visited the family's home multiple times seeking food before the incident. During a computer game, he hugged and kissed the boy without consent, took photos with him, and placed his hands on the boy's genitals over his clothing. The victim later expressed fear of Lifer to his mother, who then asked Lifer to leave.

Lifer was convicted of indecent assault on a minor under 16 without consent, receiving eight months of community service, a suspended sentence, the 45,000 shekel compensation, and a probation order. The sentencing noted Lifer's personal and family circumstances, his upbringing without parental support, and the community's support. It also mentioned his time under electronic monitoring and partial house arrest, his engagement in therapeutic processes despite difficulties, his admission of responsibility, and his payment of compensation.

Attorney Keren Barak stated that the case is a "shocking incident" and called for a deep reckoning and decisive change in enforcement, punishment, and supervision policies for sex offenders to protect children. She emphasized that the legal system must prioritize the protection of minors and ensure offenders are held accountable, adding that civil justice can provide recognition, compensation, and a sense of justice when criminal justice falls short.