Leifer stays put…for now

Malka Leifer released from handcuffs
Photo: AAP
The Israeli Supreme Court heard the appeal against the District Court’s decision to release Malka Leifer yesterday and has ruled that Leifer must remain in custody in the medical psychiatric facility until he makes his final ruling at a date to be finalised.
President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, Dr. Danny Lamm responded to the news that the decision to grant Malka Leifer bail has been reversed.
“It was very distressing to hear that Malka Leifer had been granted bail, so I welcome the news that this has now been reversed and her extradition hearing will take place later this month.
Israel’s court system adheres to and recognises the principles of the rule of law. The ZFA nevertheless remains appalled that Leifer and those around her continue to block extradition proceedings to ensure that she faces her day in court in this country.
My heart goes out to the victims who suffered abuse at her hands and are no doubt being subjected to further suffering the longer this ordeal gets drawn out.”
I was very disturbed to learn of Rabbi Grossman’s offer. Personally, I have had great respect for the wonderful charitable work that Rabbi Grossman performs for the Israeli poor and needy. I find his intervention in this case as very sad and unwarranted. As a citizen of Israel, and as one that has huge pride and respect for the Israeli judicial system, I am embarassed and ashamed by the length of time taken in order to extradite this woman, who “ran away from justice” in Australia. I pray and hope, for the sake of justice , and all of her alleged victims, that the accused will be returned to Australia, sooner, as opposed to later, in order to face justice.
It was a considerable shock, to learn that the alleged Perp was recently released into the care of elderly Rabban Grossman, so that he could “supervise her with the aid of his two assistants, in a house arrest.” It was very evident from some video published in Australia on the ABC news, taken outside the courtroom subsequently, that this honourable gentleman was struggling to cope with the task of gaoler. ~~ The case does underline, the substantial differences between the Australian and Israeli legal systems. One does have to hope, that the alleged Perp shall in due course be extradited to Australia. [Lizzie via Bendigo]