Rishon Lezion deputy mayor arrested on suspicion of sexually harassing city employee

A deputy mayor of the central city of Rishon Lezion was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of sexually harassing a municipal employee, police said.

The arrest followed a complaint filed by the employee, which prompted investigators to open a covert investigation.

Police said investigators carried out a series of actions aimed at gathering evidence before the probe became public Wednesday morning with the deputy mayor’s arrest. His name was barred from publication until formal charges are brought.

Investigative sources told the Walla news site that the alleged conduct was “systematic and humiliating,” and added, “We will examine whether there are additional complainants.”

Police were expected to ask the Rishon Lezion Magistrate’s Court to extend the suspect’s detention in accordance with the needs of the investigation and the evidence gathered.

The investigation was handled by the Central District’s fraud unit, which investigates public corruption, financial crimes and alleged misconduct involving public officials.

Authorities intend to seek court permission to publish the deputy mayor’s name in an effort to locate any additional alleged victims.

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