Autistic Young Woman Sexually Assaulted in Bat Yam Hotel, Family Seeks Justice

Yael, a 19-year-old woman on the autism spectrum with epilepsy and full disability, was sexually assaulted in early August by 51-year-old Rafael Sherga in a Bat Yam hotel. According to the indictment filed on August 19, Sherga lured Yael, whom he did not know, from a café where she was sitting alone, to a hotel apartment and violently raped her. The charges include aggravated rape without consent, exploiting her intellectual disability, and additional indecent acts.

Yael’s brother, Alon, described how he overheard the assault during a phone call and immediately alerted the police, interrupting Sherga’s attack. Police quickly located and arrested Sherga in Bat Yam, aided by Yael’s presence of mind in photographing his car license plate. Despite his arrest, Yael remains traumatized and fearful of him returning, suffering from nightmares, flashbacks, and severe emotional distress.

The family emphasized the ongoing psychological and physical toll on Yael, who has begun medication to cope with the trauma. They also highlighted the loss of their mother three years ago, who was Yael’s primary caregiver and protector. The family is determined to see Sherga convicted and imprisoned, stressing the need to raise awareness about the vulnerabilities of people with disabilities and the dangers they face.

Police praised the swift and sensitive handling of the case by Bat Yam station officers and forensic investigators. Attorney Gabi Lieberman, representing the family, condemned Sherga’s predatory behavior and called for a strong judicial response to protect vulnerable populations. The prosecution has requested Sherga’s continued detention pending trial.

Yael’s story underscores the risks faced by disabled individuals and the importance of community vigilance and legal protection.