Investigation of former Acre mayor concludes on suspicion of election bribery: "There is sufficient evidence to indict him"

The investigation by the National Fraud Unit (YAHBA) in Lahav 433 has concluded against the former mayor of Acre, Amichai Ben Shlush, his deputy Itamar Sonino, and others on suspicion of election bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to the suspicion, Ben Shlush transferred payments to voters ahead of the local elections in February 2024, promised public positions and benefits to his associates in exchange for assistance in recruiting supporters. The police determined that there is evidentiary basis to indict him, and the case has been transferred to the Haifa District Attorney's Office.

The investigation by the National Fraud Unit (YAHBA) in Lahav 433 has concluded against the former mayor of Acre, Amichai Ben Shlush, Deputy Mayor Itamar Sonino, and other suspects. The main suspicions: offenses of taking and giving bribes, election bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to the findings of the covert and overt investigation, ahead of the local elections for mayor of Acre on February 27, 2024, Ben Shlush and others acted to transfer payments to voters to elect him. Additionally, Ben Shlush is suspected of giving favors, promising public positions, and committing to various benefits for his associates in exchange for assistance in recruiting supporters. The police determined that there is evidentiary basis to indict Ben Shlush. The investigation file has been transferred to the Haifa District Attorney's Office, which will make the final decision regarding him. This is a serious case of alleged governmental corruption, raising questions about the integrity of local elections.

Investigation of former Acre mayor concludes on suspicion of election bribery: "There is sufficient evidence to indict him"