The case of the so-called Munchausen mom has widespread ramifications, far more serious than the outcome of this specific case. Baruch Hashem the toddler who was reportedly in serious condition, suffering from profound malnourishment, is gaining weight and out of danger. The mother, Yenta bas Yocheved has undergone psychiatric evaluation, and her fate will most likely be determined by the courts.

Ruthie Shapira, a senior official in the Jerusalem social services network has spent years building a relationship with members of the chareidi community, gaining the trust of the parents and children alike, known as a safe place, a government office that seeks to assist those in need or chas v’sholom, those in crisis.

In a flash, Ms. Shapira has become the enemy, for she is blamed for the phone call which brought Yenta to the social services offices, into the waiting hands of police. The pashkavilim seen around the city target her, perhaps rendering her services posul for the future, a reality that will undoubtedly impact many families.

For now, Shapira is not at ease, fearing for her safety. She is not living at home, moving from place to place every few days, hoping the enemy will not learn of her whereabouts. She is instructed to carry teargas when she is outdoors, and Jerusalem City Hall has assigned guards to accompany her, to maintain a watchful eye, fearing chareidi hoodlums may strike out.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)