The Jerusalem District Court on Tuesday sentenced Yossi Malach to three years in prison for throwing fireworks at a basketball game about 10 months ago. A security guard, who picked up the firework device, lost a number of fingers and use of his primary hand as a result of his injuries.

The court came down hard on Malach who explained “it was a prank” but the court reminded him of his insensitive attitude at the time of his arrest, and his statement, “why did the idiot have to pick it up” in reference to the injured guard. The victim attended the court sessions, explaining that it was important to him to “look Malach in the eyes as the trial proceeded”.

The court added that someone must set an example to bring a halt to the unacceptable social behavior, which places fans at a simple basketball game in jeopardy.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)