Former Chief Rabbi of Israel, Yona Metzger, left prison Wednesday morning. Metzger served 22 months after being convicted of fraud, accepting bribes, and other white-collar charges.

Metzger told reporters, “When Adar comes, we increase our joy” and certainly that is the case for him, as his wife said she was overcome with joy.

The Jerusalem District Court convicted Metzger and sentenced him to 4 ½ years in prison after being convicted of the charges against him. There was a plea bargain in place that called for a 3 ½ year prison term, but the court handed down the harsher term, nonetheless.

A parole board met on Tuesday and decided Metzger would be released after serving two thirds of his term having been a model prisoner. The release took place the following morning.

Attorney Rotem Tuval, represents the former chief rabbi, told the press, “we praise the decision for his release. He is fit to be released, and the terms of his release have been determined, which do not include house arrest.”

After being released, Metzger headed to Kever Rochel and then to the Kosel to be mispallel.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem/Photos: מוסדות רחל אמנו)