Family Alleges Police Brutality During Disturbance Call in Nahariya Home

Yosef Ben Haim from Nahariya reported a violent police incident at his home in the Amidar neighborhood last Thursday. The event began around noon after his 18-year-old daughter, who has mental health challenges, called emergency services and said "help" before hanging up during a family dispute. Police arrived within ten minutes, but the situation escalated quickly. Ben Haim, his wife, and daughter were handcuffed, while their five younger children were left frightened and crying. He claims his wife was subjected to stun guns and tear gas, and he was beaten while handcuffed. The family demands an independent investigation, including body camera footage and command decisions during the incident.

Ben Haim described how police refused to properly identify themselves and confiscated his phone when he tried to record the event. He said the arrest was not related to the initial call but stemmed from the confrontation after police entered the home. His wife, who suffers from claustrophobia, had a panic attack and was forcibly restrained. Six officers reportedly chased her down the street, using stun guns and tear gas. Ben Haim was beaten, insulted, and detained for over four hours, while his daughter was also handcuffed despite requests for leniency. His 17-year-old son was threatened by an officer when trying to assist his mother.

The family, who had no prior police record, is traumatized, with the children unable to return home and staying with relatives. Ben Haim, a 20-year police volunteer, said the incident shattered his trust in law enforcement, leading him to return all his police gear and sever ties with the force. Their lawyer, Elinor Tal, condemned the "brutal, unjustified police violence" and announced plans to file a complaint with the Police Investigations Department and pursue legal action against the officers involved.

The Israel Police stated the officers responded to a call about a life-threatening situation and faced violent resistance that hindered their investigation. The suspects were detained and later released under conditions. The case has been forwarded to the Police Investigations Department for review, and no further comments will be made until the investigation concludes.