Volunteer Alleges Police Assault and Humiliation in Front of His Children in Nahariya
Yossi Ben Haim, a police volunteer and member of a rapid response team, alleges that he and his wife were beaten, handcuffed, and humiliated by police officers in front of their children during an incident at their home in Nahariya on August 14, 2026. According to Ben Haim, the event began around noon when two officers entered their home following a police call. Despite his attempts to explain that there was no disturbance, the situation escalated rapidly into a violent confrontation within about 70 to 80 seconds.
Ben Haim claims that during the altercation, one officer forcibly removed his wife's head covering and pushed her, while he himself was handcuffed behind his back and subjected to physical abuse, including being punched in the back. He also alleges that his wife was handcuffed and physically restrained, leaving visible injuries, and that both were humiliated and verbally abused at the police station where they were held for hours. The couple's children witnessed the entire episode, which deeply affected Ben Haim, leading him to resign from his volunteer position and return his police equipment the following day.
The police stated that officers responded to a report of a possible life-threatening situation inside the residence and encountered violent resistance, which hindered their ability to investigate. They confirmed that the officers were equipped with body cameras and that the incident was referred to the Police Investigations Department (Mahash) for review. The police also noted that the individuals involved were detained for questioning and later released under conditions. A senior investigator later intervened to de-escalate the situation at the station.
Ben Haim expressed particular distress over the impact on his wife and children, stating he cannot currently return to his home. He also recounted receiving apologies from police commanders who acknowledged the severity and preventability of the incident. The police emphasized that they cannot comment further until the investigation concludes.
