Family Alleges Police Brutality After Domestic Dispute in Nahariya Home

A family dispute in Nahariya escalated into a police incident involving force, handcuffing, and detention, according to the family. The event occurred last Thursday around noon in the Ben Haim family home in the Amidar neighborhood. Following a quarrel between a mother and her daughter, the daughter called the police emergency line, saying "Help" before hanging up without requesting officers to come. Police located the home and arrived shortly after, by which time the argument had ended and the atmosphere had calmed.

The family claims police assumed it was a domestic violence case between spouses and escalated the situation unnecessarily. The father, Yossi Ben Haim, who serves in Nahariya’s rapid response unit, said officers confiscated his phone when he tried to record the scene. He and his wife and daughter were handcuffed and taken to the police station in front of their five children. Ben Haim alleges he was struck by an officer twice after being handcuffed and that his wife was thrown to the floor, causing her to lose control due to an anxiety attack. Their daughter, who has a disability, was also handcuffed.

The family demands a thorough investigation of police conduct, including body camera footage, station cameras, and operational reports. They stress they seek answers, not revenge. The police stated the officers responded to a call concerning a life-threatening situation, faced violent resistance, and detained those involved who were later released under conditions. The incident was referred to the Police Investigations Department for review.

The family’s attorney, Elinor Tal, condemned the police actions as brutal and unjustified, emphasizing the trauma inflicted on the children who witnessed the events. She announced plans to file an urgent complaint with the Police Investigations Department and pursue all legal avenues to hold the officers accountable. The father expressed deep disappointment in the police system he serves, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability.