What it is about

The Department of Internal Police Investigations (DIPI) announced Tuesday that seven police officers will face charges related to a 2023 incident during which it was alleged that a Star of David was branded on the face of an East Jerusalem resident, 22-year-old Arwah Sheikh Ali, during his arrest.

Why it matters

This case highlights the commitment of Israeli authorities to rigorous oversight and accountability within the police force. It underscores their readiness to address any allegations of misconduct, thereby ensuring the protection of human rights and lawful conduct by law enforcement.

Details

According to DIPI, the officers are to be indicted on charges including abuse of a helpless person, aggravated assault, obstruction of investigative proceedings, and abuse of official power. However, not all the officers face all the charges.

The incident in question occurred in August 2023, when Ali, an East Jerusalem resident, accused officers of assaulting him and branding his face while arresting him for suspected drug trafficking. Ali reported the incident several days after it occurred, sparking significant media coverage.

The Response

Police have contested Ali’s claims, explaining that the mark on his face resulted from pressure applied by the laced-up part of an officer’s boot during his subdual. They assert there was no racial animus in the officers’ actions and accuse Ali of resisting arrest violently.

Jerusalem Magistrate’s Court Judge Amir Shaked remarked that police have yet to provide a reasonable explanation for the bruises or the malfunctioning bodycams of the 16 officers allegedly involved in the arrest.

In the Investigation

DIPI initially found no bodycam footage due to deactivated cameras, but later discovered cell phone footage that suggested some recordings had been deleted. Six officers have been questioned over the suspicion of deleting this footage.

Endorsement from Leadership

Outgoing Jerusalem District Commander Doron Turgeman has expressed his support for the officers involved, criticizing the media’s portrayal of the incident as a “court martial.” He stands by the officers’ accounts, emphasizing the significant discrepancy between the physical evidence and the alleged narratives.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.