Sports Instructor Charged with Sexual Abuse of Disabled Residents in Israeli Care Home

The Central District Prosecutor's Office filed charges on Wednesday against Gilboa Dahan, a 52-year-old sports instructor from Netanya, accusing him of sexually abusing residents with intellectual disabilities at a care home. According to the indictment submitted to the Central District Court in Lod, Dahan exploited his position and close contact with vulnerable residents during sports lessons and walking groups held three times a week. He allegedly committed indecent acts against five female residents with intellectual impairments, including inappropriate touching and using their hands to touch his genitalia. Some acts occurred during routine activities and even in the presence of staff members.

The investigation, led by the Kfar Saba police station, was based on covertly collected video evidence rather than direct victim testimony. Police noted that Dahan also worked as a sports instructor in other settings, and the inquiry is ongoing to determine if there are additional victims. Prosecutors requested that Dahan remain in custody throughout the legal proceedings, citing concerns for public safety and the vulnerability of the victims, whom he allegedly targeted because they could not report his actions. Defense statements deny the allegations, claiming any contact was part of assistance provided to the residents.

The case highlights the exploitation of disabled individuals by a trusted caregiver and the challenges in uncovering abuse in such environments. The court will decide on the continuation of Dahan's detention as the investigation proceeds.