Jerusalem Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Sexual Assaults on Vulnerable Women Near Central Bus Station

Ramin Mizrahi, 63, who owned a household goods and antiques store near Jerusalem's central bus station, was sentenced to seven years in prison by the Jerusalem District Court on Monday. Mizrahi was convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses against three women who entered his store as customers. The court found that he deliberately targeted vulnerable women, exploiting their weaknesses to satisfy his urges. In one particularly severe case, Mizrahi locked the store shutters and raped a 15-year-old girl without her consent. In two other instances, he committed indecent acts against women with disabilities who visited his shop.

The judges condemned Mizrahi's actions as a grave violation of the victims' dignity, bodies, and freedom, emphasizing his cynical exploitation of power imbalances and structural vulnerabilities. The prosecution had sought an 11-year sentence, expressing disappointment that the seven-year term did not fully reflect the severity of the crimes and the significant psychological harm inflicted. Attorney Yifat Pinchasi-Nevo from the Jerusalem District Prosecutor's Office stated that the defendant repeatedly chose especially vulnerable women, warranting a harsher punishment.

Attorney Ravit Zilberfarb, representing one of the victims through legal aid, praised the courage of the complainants who endured the court process. She noted that the victim wished to publicize Mizrahi's name not only to ensure his punishment but also to warn the public and serve as a deterrent. In addition to the prison term, Mizrahi received a suspended sentence and was ordered to pay 130,000 shekels in compensation to the victims.