Facing charges of fraud, breach of trust, tax evasion and money laundering charges, former Chief Rabbi Yonah Metzger stands accused of not paying for a promotional video to share his activities with the world.

Photographer and producer Yonatan Zonstein has filed a lawsuit against Rabbi Metzger in the Jerusalem Magistrate Court, alleging he produced a promotional video portraying the rav’s professional career. According to attorney Yaakov Abramowitz, Rav Metzger met with his client, in his office over a year ago when he ordered the promotional video. He adds “Metzger preferred not to draw up a written contract at the time”, telling his client he is a public official and his word is sufficient. They agreed the fee would be 140,000 NIS.

Zonstein accompanied the rav to many places as he began accumulating footage for the promo video, which has been completed but he has only received 30,000 NIS.

Attorney Abramowitz explains he client has contacted the former chief rabbi and was told “I am in the midst of a police investigation and it is prohibited for us to speak. Please understand and judge me favorably.”

Zonstein then turned to the rabbi’s attorney who stated “The rav reiterates that the debt will be paid the moment the situation permits and thanks you in advance for understanding.”

Zonstein adds a year has passed and he simply feels he must turn to the court to get paid.

Attorneys for Rabbi Metzger, Prof. David Libai and Elad Roth explain the rav explained his situation and due to current circumstances which are not in his control, the situation is what it is and the bill will be paid at the first available opportunity.

Attorney Abramowitz explains many efforts were made to work with the rav but it appears that the only way to get the money due is by taking the case to court. He explains his client hopes to get the entire sum of the lawsuit, 120,000 NIS.

(No explanation given for the discrepancy in sums contained in the report).

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)