Deputy Principal and Kindergarten Teacher Arrested in Fraud Case Involving Disabled Child Benefits

A joint investigation by Israeli police, the National Insurance Institute, and the Tax Authority uncovered a fraud scheme involving forged medical documents. The case centers around a couple from Petah Tikva, including a well-known rabbi who serves as a deputy principal of a special education school and his wife, a kindergarten teacher. The couple is alleged to have submitted false medical records to the National Insurance Institute, falsely classifying healthy children as disabled to fraudulently receive benefits.

The investigation revealed that the couple forged psychiatric opinions and diagnoses, purportedly signed by professional authorities, despite knowing the children did not meet the criteria for benefits. They reportedly collected tens of thousands of shekels from families for each case and used personal codes and names in the National Insurance Institute’s system.

The probe, which lasted a year, was conducted by the Fraud Unit in the Central District, the Investigations Department of the National Insurance Institute, and the Central Investigations Department of the Tax Authority. It uncovered fraud amounting to millions of shekels. The couple was arrested and is being investigated on suspicion of fraud, forgery, breach of trust, and receiving benefits under false pretenses.

The Magistrates’ Court in Petah Tikva extended the woman’s detention until November 6 and the man’s until November 9. Authorities emphasized that any attempt to defraud state resources is taken seriously, and they are committed to recovering stolen funds and ensuring justice.

This case highlights the importance of integrity and accountability in positions of trust, especially when serving vulnerable populations. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, we are called to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and to defend the rights of the oppressed. The pursuit of justice remains a vital responsibility in upholding the dignity and welfare of all.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)