Minister Mei Golan Questioned Over Allegations of Misusing $22,000 in Donations
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Minister Mei Golan is being investigated by Lahav 433 for allegedly misusing around $22,000 in donations intended for a non-profit she founded. Investigators confronted her with testimonies and recordings from her office, but Golan denied all accusations, claiming she has documents proving the funds were used for charity. She is expected to undergo further questioning before prosecutors decide on potential charges.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Minister Mei Golan is under investigation for allegedly pocketing $22,000 in donations meant for her non-profit.
- Investigators presented Golan with testimonies and recordings from her office as evidence of misuse.
- Golan denied all allegations, stating the funds were used for charity and she has documents to prove it.
- She underwent a second day of questioning by Lahav 433 investigators.
- Authorities warned they would pursue her after elections if she loses immunity.
- The investigation stems from a Channel 12 report on alleged unlawful fund reception.
Israeli Minister Mei Golan was questioned for a second day by Lahav 433 investigators regarding allegations that she misused public funds and personal donations totaling approximately $22,000. The funds were reportedly intended for a non-profit organization she founded. Investigators confronted Golan with testimonies from her associates, who claim she used the money for personal expenses and received donations meant for the organization.
During the interrogation, investigators presented Golan with evidence, including recordings and testimonies from individuals within her office, suggesting she used public funds for personal needs. One investigator reportedly stated, "We have a witness who says you pocketed the donation money of the 'Hebrew City' association, about $22,000." Golan vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that the funds were used for food packages for the needy in South Tel Aviv and that she possessed documents to prove her innocence.
Golan, who arrived at the unit's offices prepared with legal counsel and documents, stated she was willing to confront any witness and denied all allegations, calling them "lies" and a "plot." She expressed a desire to conclude the investigation in one day, refusing breaks and insisting on answering all questions without invoking her right to silence.
Investigators indicated that Golan would likely be required for another day of questioning before the findings are transferred to the State Prosecutor's Office for a decision. A senior Lahav 433 official warned that if Golan does not cooperate voluntarily, authorities would pursue her after the upcoming elections, especially if she loses her parliamentary immunity.
The investigation, which began as a covert inquiry, was launched following a "HaMevaker" (The Critic) investigation on Channel 12. This report detailed allegations of Golan and her associates receiving funds unlawfully, including improper salary from her non-profit and payments for work that may not have been performed. The investigation became public in September of the previous year with the approval of Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, and evidence suggesting grounds for indictment has reportedly been gathered.
