Former Chief Rabbi Yonah Yechiel Metzger was arrested by police on Monday 15 Kislev 5774 after police investigated allegations of accepting bribes and money laundering involving millions of shekels involving the rabbi. The rabbi was then remanded for an additional week and now, defense attorney David Libai tells reporters he is concerned for the rav’s well-being.

Libai pointed out that Rabbi Metzger has to date cooperated with police and has always presented himself for questioning when requested to do so. Libai questions why the need to incarcerate the former chief rabbi for an additional week. Police told the court they fear if the rabbi is released he is likely to interfere with the ongoing case. The court imposed a gag order on the names of the state witnesses who will testify against the rav.

Libai feels police are overreacting; citing investigators placed a lien on the rabbi’s bank accounts amounting to 200,000 NIS in addition to taking 10,000 NIS that was in a safe. He questions where the alleged “millions” are that police accuse the rabbi of taking. He stressed the continued imprisonment may chas v’sholom have a negative impact on the rabbi’s physical and mental well-being.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)