Former AG defines probe scope
Avichai Mandelblit testified that investigators retained broad discretion under his original authorizations, a point the defense is pressing in the ongoing trial.
By Camila Vargas ·
The defense in the trial of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is challenging the scope of police authority during the initial investigations. Former attorney-general Avichai Mandelblit returned to the Jerusalem District Court on Monday to address these limits.
Mandelblit authorized the original probes and later signed the indictment. He is testifying for the defense. Netanyahu’s lawyer, Amit Hadad, focused on specific permissions granted to investigators. He asked which steps required further consent from the former attorney general.
The hearing shifted focus to Case 1000 on Monday. This case involves alleged gifts from businessmen Arnon Milchan and James Packer. It also covers actions Netanyahu allegedly took to benefit Milchan.
Defense counsel questioned whether investigators exceeded their mandate when they interviewed Hadas Klein, Milchan’s assistant. They also questioned the interview of Yonatan Hasson, Packer’s driver.
Mandelblit stated that these actions fell within his wider permission to examine suspicions of substantial benefits. He argued that this permission remained in force. Investigators did not need to return to him for approval of each individual step.
Judge Moshe Bar-Am asked how investigators could distinguish between covered steps and those needing new consent. Mandelblit explained that the subject matter of his approval set the boundaries. He noted that significant developments would require further consultation.
Before Monday’s session, Mandelblit testified on Sunday regarding the wiretapping of Natan Eshel. He said he ordered police to stop the operation once he learned of it. Investigators had a court warrant, but Mandelblit argued they should have sought his approval first due to Eshel’s close ties to the prime minister.
The trial began in May 2020 and covers three cases involving alleged gifts and media dealings. Netanyahu faces charges of fraud and breach of trust in all three. Case 4000 includes a bribery charge related to Bezeq and Walla. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing.
The next scheduled hearing will continue the examination of investigative procedures. The court will determine how the scope of authorization applies to other evidence in the case.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
