Jerusalem Rabbi Arrested for Rape Told Women It Was a 'Spiritual Act'

Israel Police arrested on Wednesday a Jerusalem rabbi in his 50s and two possible accomplices on suspicion of raping women in his congregation, following a lengthy undercover investigation.

The rabbi, who worked to make people more religious, is suspected of sexually assaulting women in his community for several years, telling the victims that it was a "spiritual act" to comply to his sexual demands.

The police even suspect that he sexually assaulted a woman on her wedding day, explaining that this would allow her to marry in sanctity.

• Child Sexual Assault Reports in ultra-Orthodox Cities Has Spiked in Last Decade
• Prominent Haredi Figure Held After Two Women Say He Molested Them
• Chaim Walder’s Suicide Is a Final Attempt to Overwrite His Victims

The arrests were carried out at the end of a months-long investigation by Jerusalem Police, after numerous complaints of sexual and economic offenses were filed at the station.

Israel Police are working to identify more victims, calling on anyone who can shed light on any offenses to come forward.

In addition, the police will request to extend his detention at the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court on Wednesday.