Israeli Police Officer Sues 30 Over Defamation Amid Judicial Overhaul Protests

Police Sergeant Major Doron Ozari has filed defamation lawsuits totaling nearly half a million shekels against 30 civilians who allegedly made slanderous remarks about him online. Ozari, who was involved in confrontations with protesters during the judicial overhaul demonstrations in July 2023, claims he was called derogatory names such as "scum" and "mentally ill." The lawsuits stem from two incidents where Ozari was seen engaging with protesters, including issuing a ticket and making a statement that some interpreted as a threat to shoot demonstrators.

One of the lawsuits, seeking 84,000 shekels against seven individuals, prompted the Magistrate Court in Tel Aviv to unusually request an opinion from the Association for Civil Rights. The court is examining whether these lawsuits constitute strategic litigation against public participation (SLAPP), intended to silence criticism. The Association submitted its opinion, expressing concern that the numerous lawsuits filed by Ozari could have a chilling effect on free speech, particularly regarding criticism of law enforcement officials who wield power.

In one concluded case, Ozari was awarded approximately 43,000 shekels after a court ruled that a defendant's claim of Ozari stating he was willing to shoot Jewish protesters constituted defamation, as it could not be proven. However, the Association for Civil Rights argues that while officers' reputations are important, there's a need to distinguish between factual falsehoods and legitimate criticism of their conduct in their official capacity. They emphasize that free speech protections are especially crucial for criticism directed at those in positions of authority.

Ozari's attorney, Yoni Giorno, countered that the defendants are attempting to create media spins instead of taking responsibility, calling the "SLAPP suit" claims a transparent effort to legitimize "wild shaming" of uniformed officers. He stated that courts have repeatedly affirmed Ozari's claims of severe defamation and that political organizations should not influence judicial decisions regarding clear libel, such as false accusations of intent to shoot protesters or being "on drugs."