Israeli Police Consider Promoting Officer Who Shot Civilian Amid Ongoing Legal Appeal

The Israeli police are considering promoting Chief Inspector Ohad Goldberg, despite an ongoing legal appeal against him. Goldberg, son of former police Human Resources chief Boaz Goldberg, admitted to shooting a civilian in the back during an arrest at a gas station in Kibbutz Bachan on December 30, 2023. The incident occurred when Goldberg, commanding the crime-fighting unit in the Sharon region, confronted a man who was aggressively arguing with a store clerk and mistakenly believed a robbery was taking place. While the civilian was lying face down with his hands behind his neck, Goldberg fired his M16 rifle at his back.

The Magistrate's Court in Kfar Saba chose not to convict Goldberg, instead sentencing him to 100 hours of community service, a probation order, and a 5,000 shekel compensation payment to the victim. However, the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) appealed this decision to the Central District Court in Lod, arguing that the officer's actions were reckless and posed a real danger to human life, especially given the victim was in a submissive position and posed no threat.

Meanwhile, the police are proceeding with discussions about Goldberg's promotion. Central District Commander Amir Cohen wrote that a decision on whether to advance Goldberg's rank will be made soon during an annual review meeting. Cohen praised Goldberg as a highly professional and exemplary officer, noting that several senior officers and colleagues testified in his favor. Cohen also emphasized that the shooting occurred shortly after the outbreak of war, under conditions of extreme tension and uncertainty, with Goldberg acting alone without backup.

Cohen stated that if Mahash had not appealed, Goldberg would have been promoted to Superintendent. However, due to the ongoing appeal, no promotion decision can be finalized at this time. Should Goldberg be convicted, his promotion will be blocked. The legal process continues as the Central District Court prepares to review Mahash's appeal.