Kfar Saba Mayor Case: Arrested Relative Claims Seized Cash Is State Compensation

An investigation into a corruption case involving the mayor of Kfar Saba has taken a new turn. The mother-in-law of the mayor, a woman in her 70s who was arrested as part of the municipal corruption probe, claims through her attorney, Gadi Afriat, that the money found in her home largely originates from state compensation for being recognized as a victim of hostilities during the war with Iran.

According to Afriat, the remaining cash consists of lifelong savings from domestic work, and there is no connection between the funds and the corruption suspicions under investigation.

Explanation of the Seized Funds

In an interview, Adv. Afriat explained that the suspect was recognized about three months ago as a victim of hostilities and received approximately 150,000 shekels in state compensation. The money was reportedly deposited into her bank account, later withdrawn in cash, and kept at home. Afriat emphasized that this fact can easily be verified through bank statements.

Regarding the rest of the money, the defense attorney explained that it represents personal savings accumulated over 20 years of domestic work, where she received her wages in cash. Describing her difficult personal and economic situation, Afriat stated:

She is a struggling woman, living from hand to mouth, saving every single shekel. This is her pension, accumulated over 20 years.

Criticism of the Detention

Adv. Afriat criticized the court's decision to extend her detention by three days, arguing that sufficient weight was not given to her age, medical condition, and psychological state. He alleged that her arrest is intended to exert pressure on her daughter and son-in-law, who were also arrested in the case.

The defense attorney expressed hope that no further requests for detention extension will be filed, noting that her banking records and compensation documents clearly outline the origins of the funds without requiring her continued incarceration.