Netanya Sports Coach Arrested for Alleged Sexual Abuse of Disabled Girls in Kfar Saba Hostel

Gilboa Dahan, a 50-year-old sports coach from Netanya, is suspected of sexually abusing girls with disabilities at a children's hostel in Kfar Saba. Following a covert investigation, police arrested Dahan after reviewing security camera footage that allegedly shows him touching the girls inappropriately and committing indecent acts. The Petah Tikva Magistrate's Court extended his detention by four days until the upcoming Sunday.

During the court hearing, police representative Sergeant Ariel Amsalem stated that the investigation uncovered multiple complaints indicating that Dahan, who worked as a sports instructor in several institutions, abused several vulnerable girls unable to report independently due to their cognitive disabilities. Dahan denied the allegations, claiming he was only assisting the girls. His attorneys, Amir Kimchi and Yehudit Ela Shaked, emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and urged patience until its conclusion.

The case highlights serious concerns about the protection of disabled children in care facilities and the responsibility of staff working with vulnerable populations. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the alleged abuse and Dahan's conduct at other institutions where he was employed.