Shin Bet Spokesperson Allegedly Leaks Confidential Criminal Data to Journalist Ben Caspit

In a defamation lawsuit filed by right-wing activist Elisha Yarad against journalist Ben Caspit, it was revealed that the Shin Bet spokesperson allegedly leaked confidential criminal information to Caspit, posing as data from the secret police registry. This act is reportedly illegal under Israeli law, which strictly protects criminal records from unauthorized disclosure.

Exchanged messages disclosed during the legal proceedings show Caspit admitting that his source was the Shin Bet spokesperson. The leaked information included detailed records about Yarad, such as multiple arrests and administrative restraining orders, which Caspit used to publicly criticize Limor Son Har Melech, a Knesset member who appointed Yarad as her spokesperson.

The criminal records are protected under the Criminal Information Law and the Shin Bet Regulations, which allow access only to authorized government or security bodies for specific purposes. Journalists are not authorized recipients, making the disclosure a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in prison.

The legal aid organization Honenu, representing Yarad, questioned whether there is a coordinated effort between the Shin Bet and journalists like Caspit for political and parliamentary objectives, potentially involving criminal violations. Attorney Menashe Yado of Honenu emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, highlighting the illegal use of confidential data to influence public opinion and political appointments.