Israeli Police Close Case Without Investigation Against Suspect in Intimate Image Distribution

The Israeli police have closed a complaint against a man suspected of trading intimate photos and videos of women on the Telegram messaging app, despite not collecting testimonies or interrogating the suspect. The complaint was filed about a year ago by Ma'at, an organization that provides technological support to victims of online sexual assault. Their research identified the suspect, some victims, and evidence of a recurring pattern of abuse.

In recent weeks, police began contacting women identified as victims following additional inquiries, but claimed none agreed to testify. However, one victim, identified as L., told Kan News she consented to testify and attend police questioning. She described the difficulty of revisiting the trauma and criticized police attitudes, saying officers often treat victims as if they are to blame rather than as victims.

L. called the police decision to close the case "disrespectful," emphasizing the ongoing harm caused by the distribution of her intimate images. Ma'at director Naama Feilchenfeld expressed disappointment that no action was taken despite multiple complaints against the suspect over the years.

The Israeli police responded that an investigation was opened upon receiving the complaint and that actions were taken based on available evidence and legal guidelines. They denied that any complainant agreed to testify and stated the case closure was based solely on the evidentiary basis at the time. They added that any new information or evidence would be professionally reviewed and could lead to reopening the investigation.

This case highlights ongoing challenges in prosecuting online sexual offenses and the difficulties victims face in cooperating with law enforcement.