Police Commander's Remarks Spark Outrage Among Lawyers

The commander of the Coastal District's Special Patrol Unit, Superintendent Yoni Chajaj, made highly unusual and unprecedented statements during an interview for a podcast hosted by attorney Rotem Tubul. Chajaj referred to defense attorneys as "scum" and "liars," claiming they would "sell their mother" and "disrupt investigations, lie, cheat, steal, do whatever it takes for their client." He further stated he would "fold up 30% to 50%" of lawyers and "paint them blue and throw them into the sea." Chajaj also accused the State Attorney's Office of hindering his work with defense lawyers and journalists.

Chajaj detailed instances where he allegedly encountered defense attorneys whose clients were recorded on their phones, receiving versions of events and instructions to obstruct investigations. He advised new lawyers that eventually, someone would lose patience and enforce strict lines, regardless of who crosses them, including journalists and defense attorneys.

In response to these remarks, the Bar Association has formally complained to the Commissioner of Police, Dani Levy, demanding immediate disciplinary action against Chajaj and a legal review of his statements. The Bar Association described Chajaj's comments as "severe, abusive, and violent" towards criminal defense attorneys and the State Attorney's Office, particularly his assertion that obstructing investigations is part of their job.

The Bar Association, led by its head Amit Bachar and acting head Tami Ullman, characterized Chajaj's statements as "wild incitement and a call for bloodshed directed at an entire public that defends the rule of law and human rights." They also warned that such statements from a senior police officer are particularly alarming given the rising trend of violence against lawyers.