Israel's High Court signals it will not order police probe into 2023 death of Yuval Kestelman
After hearing both sides on Monday, the three-justice panel urged the family to withdraw its petition. The family declined and requested a reasoned judgment.
The High Court of Justice indicated on Monday that it did not plan to order a criminal investigation into Jerusalem police officers regarding their handling of the inquiry into the 2023 death of Yuval Kestelman, who was mistakenly shot by Sgt. Aviad Frija. Kestelman, a 38-year-old attorney, intervened when Hamas terrorists opened fire at a Jerusalem entrance and was subsequently shot.
Police released Kestelman's body for burial without an autopsy, which was later performed after determining it was necessary. The autopsy found evidence suggesting the officers involved may have deliberately obstructed the investigation. However, the court deemed it "very, very difficult" to conclude there was criminal intent or criminal action.
Kestelman's family argues that the police officers' actions indicate obstruction of justice, but the state maintains there is no evidence of deliberate obstruction. The Justice Minister's decision not to initiate a criminal investigation remains in effect until a reasoned judgment is issued.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
