The Israel Police today arrested Ashkelon Mayor Itamar Shimoni on suspicion of various offenses, including rape and corruption. The Rishon Lezion Magistrates Court extended his remand.
Three businessmen were arrested in addition to Shimoni on suspicion of involvement with Shimoni in bribery and fraud. Shimoni is suspected of accepting bribes to promote the business affairs of contractors and developers, including fraud and acts in violation of the Prohibition on Money Laundering Law.
The police investigation is being conducted in cooperation with the Tel Aviv District Prosecutor.
Shimoni also allegedly tried to pay hush money to a number of Ashkelon City Council employees and other women, so that they would not complain about the sexual offenses he committed against them. The investigation allegedly indicates that women who were not municipal employees, but who needed certain municipal services, were among those assualted.
Following a covert investigation, the police today conducted searches of the suspects' homes and offices, including the municipality offices and the offices of a contracting company. The policemen seized documents, computers, and property and accounts for the purpose of a confiscation request.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on January 5, 2016
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2016