Leifer: Rabbi retracts release request
MALKA Leifer's continued detention in a psychiatric facility is proof that together the community can create a culture that is morally accountable, one of her alleged victims Dassi Erlich said.
MALKA Leifer’s continued detention in a psychiatric facility is proof that together the community can create a culture that is morally accountable, one of her alleged victims Dassi Erlich said.
In unbelievable scenes last week, a prominent rabbi, Yitzhak Dovid Grossman, testified in a Jerusalem court that Leifer should be released from the psychiatric facility into house arrest because it was humiliating for her to be behind bars.
The judge accepted the evidence from Rabbi Grossman, the founder of a youth network which educates more than 12,000 students annually who has received the Israel Prize, one of the country’s most prestigious honours, for his youth outreach work.
The judge ordered that Leifer should be released to home detention. But her alleged victims and the community at large were outraged, and prosecutors appealed against her release.
While a judge was considering the appeal, and Leifer was still behind bars, Rabbi Grossman withdrew his testimony in support of Leifer.
“I am completely withdrawing my involvement in the case of Malka Leifer, and my recommendation that she be placed under house arrest with my supervision,” Rabbi Grossman said.
“I am very sensitive to the pain and plight of children and adults who are abused, as I see it every day in my work at Migdal Ohr. It is regretful that the current turmoil has in any way called into question that mission and dedication.”
Erlich welcomed the statement.
“Rabbi Grossman’s retraction is proof that together we can create a culture that is morally accountable,” she said.
“We are glad he has withdrawn his support but feel the pain he caused was not recognised with an apology.
“Rabbi Grossman is in a position to foster significant change in Israel.
“We would welcome a discussion with him in how he can further encourage and support victims who speak up.”
A judge is still considering the prosecutor’s appeal, because the judge’s order to release Leifer to home detention still stands.
Following the latest developments, the Rabbinical Council of Victoria issued a statement expressing its “deep concern”.
“Every additional impediment in this saga increases the suffering and frustration of Leifer’s alleged victims, whose wellbeing should be a priority for all concerned,” the statement said.
“We call upon those in positions of influence in Israel to uphold the principles of justice which will allow for the speedy extradition process required for her to face criminal charges in Australia, and bring a swift end to this ongoing Chillul Hashem [desecration of God’s name].”
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