Israeli Prison Officer Admits Romantic Relationship With Murder Suspect’s Brother Amid Corruption Probe

A 34-year-old senior officer in the Israel Prison Service (IPS) is under investigation for an illicit romantic relationship with the brother of Aviaor Sasson, the main suspect in the murder of Beniho Razi in Jerusalem’s Nahlaot neighborhood. During her interrogation, the officer openly admitted to being in love with the prisoner, who is serving time for extortion, and described their relationship as affectionate, including multiple kisses in her office. She also maintained contact with his family, even considering resigning from the IPS to be with him.

The officer’s role involved managing the prison wing where the suspect’s brother was held. Authorities suspect she facilitated communication between the prisoner and his fugitive brother, who was evading police for days. Although she denied aiding Aviaor Sasson’s escape, she acknowledged knowing about his fugitive status and discussed the murder case with the prisoner. She claimed ignorance of Aviaor’s whereabouts and insisted she would have cooperated with authorities if she had known.

The investigation revealed that the officer contacted the prisoner’s family multiple times after the murder, including his mother, Linor Sasson, who is also charged with aiding and obstructing justice in the case. The IPS placed the officer on forced leave pending further inquiry. IPS spokesperson Zivon Freidin emphasized the organization’s zero tolerance for misconduct and ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight, including polygraph testing.

Defense attorney Dror Shalom stated that the investigation is ongoing, praised his client’s cooperation, and expressed confidence the case would be resolved soon. The officer’s actions have raised serious concerns about breaches of trust and potential obstruction in a high-profile murder investigation.