Youth Counselor in Israeli Kibbutz Charged with Sexual Offenses Against Six Minors

Eitan Haim Ben Dror Shahar, a 30-year-old youth counselor from a kibbutz in the Israeli Shfela region, has been indicted for committing sexual offenses against six boys in grades 7 and 8 under his supervision. The indictment, filed on Sunday at the Central District Court in Lod by the Central District Prosecutor's Office, alleges that Shahar engaged in indecent acts from 2024 until the end of June 2025. These acts occurred during various activities and locations related to his role, including car rides around the kibbutz, the kibbutz swimming pool, and the beach.

According to the indictment, Shahar repeatedly exposed his genitals to the boys, touched them inappropriately, and in some cases forced their hands onto his exposed genitalia. Specific incidents include a March 30, 2025, car ride where Shahar allowed a boy to hold the steering wheel while he exposed himself and touched the boy's hand. Similar episodes occurred on May 4 and 5, including during a LAG BaOmer event and late-night car rides, as well as at the kibbutz pool where he allegedly pressed a boy's hand onto his genitals for about 20 seconds.

The indictment also details events during a barbecue at the kibbutz pool on June 21, a Jerusalem Day celebration on May 14, and a beach outing in Ashdod on June 28, where Shahar is accused of similar misconduct. The prosecution claims these acts were committed for sexual gratification, humiliation, or arousal without the minors' consent.

The investigation revealed that the boys, who reportedly liked Shahar as a counselor, feared reporting him to avoid ruining his life. Testimonies from the victims, their parents, and friends support the allegations, alongside messages among the boys discussing the abuse. Shahar denies all charges, claiming the accusations are fabricated. The police investigation was conducted at the Kiryat Malakhi station. The prosecution has requested Shahar remain in custody until the trial concludes, citing the severity of the offenses, his close relationship with the victims, and the risk of evidence tampering.