Netanya Man Charged with Rape and Assault of Partner Amid Obsessive Control

Eli Peretz, 52, from Netanya, was charged on Monday with multiple sexual offenses and assaults against his partner. The Central District Prosecutor's Office stated that Peretz acted out of jealousy and obsession, severely impacting the victim and her children, who were forbidden from socializing due to his controlling behavior.

According to the indictment filed by attorney Tali Karat, the couple lived together for several years during which Peretz imposed strict control, demanding his partner cut ties with friends and her social worker. He sent her numerous messages demanding proof of her whereabouts and forbidding contact with other men. During one argument, he threw a cup of tea at her and threatened to evict her and her children, who depend on him financially. He also demanded her jewelry, threatening to destroy it while she slept.

The indictment details multiple instances of forced sexual acts, including one where the victim fled to the bathroom, but Peretz broke the lock with a knife, pinned her against the wall, strangled her, and raped her despite her pleas. In early June, Peretz traveled to the U.S. for the World Cup but returned early after his partner sought to end the relationship and cut contact. Upon arrival, he went to his sister’s and mother’s homes trying to find her, but relatives refused to disclose her location.

The prosecution requested Peretz’s detention until the conclusion of legal proceedings, citing his obsessive and dangerous behavior that forced the victim into hiding.