Court Extends Mayor's Suspension Amid Corruption Probe
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
A court has extended the suspension of Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar until December 13, citing strengthened evidence of bribery and obstruction of justice. The court found suspicions regarding funds transferred to his wife and his potential to interfere with the ongoing investigation. Saar, arrested in October, is accused of exploiting his position for personal gain. His return to office is deemed a risk to the investigation, particularly concerning testimony from city employees.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar's suspension extended until December 13 by court order.
- Court cited strengthened evidence of bribery and obstruction of justice against Saar.
- Suspicions involve funds transferred to Saar's wife and potential interference with investigation.
- Saar was arrested on October 12 on multiple corruption-related charges.
- The court fears Saar could obstruct the investigation if allowed to return to office.
A court has extended the suspension of Kfar Saba Mayor Rafi Saar from his position until December 13, ruling that the evidence against him has strengthened. The court cited suspicions related to funds transferred to his wife and obstruction of the investigation as key reasons for the decision.
Saar was arrested on October 12, along with other suspects, following a lengthy covert investigation. He is suspected of bribery, fraud, breach of trust, obtaining property by deception, money laundering, and tax offenses. Investigators allege he systematically exploited his authority to advance interests of individuals in the city in exchange for money transferred to his wife, with his knowledge.
The judge stated that while Saar answered investigators' questions, his explanations were insufficient regarding concrete evidence of his awareness of the funds or his involvement with alleged bribe-givers. A primary concern for his continued suspension is the fear of obstructing the investigation, particularly as many remaining investigative actions involve municipal employees directly subordinate to the mayor.
The court emphasized that Saar's return to office at this stage could grant him power and influence to hinder testimony collection and deter witnesses. This concern extends beyond tender committees to include issuing directives, influencing supervisory levels within the municipality, and managing relationships with service providers.
Saar's defense argued there was no direct evidence he knew about the funds his wife received or their origin, nor proof he acted for those suspected of giving bribes. However, the court rejected the possibility of returning Saar to duty under more limited restrictions, citing the severity of the suspicions, the strength of the evidence, and the need to allay fears of danger and, especially, obstruction. The public interest in preventing his return to the mayor's office currently outweighs allowing him to serve under conditions.
Consequently, Saar is prohibited from performing his duties as mayor, exercising authority, or engaging in any activities related to his role, including those concerning municipal corporations, the economic company, and the local planning and building committee. He is also barred from entering municipal buildings and offices. The court ordered existing financial guarantees to remain in effect. If the police seek a further extension of the suspension, they must present the prosecution's position and a list of specific individuals Saar is forbidden to contact. The decision means Saar will remain suspended until at least December 13, while investigators continue their work, focusing on gathering testimony from his subordinates. The strength of suspicions, investigation progress, and obstruction fears will be re-evaluated at the end of this period.
