Israeli police are recommending that President Moshe Katzav be charged with rape and sexual harassment in connection with sensational charges that he assaulted a former private assistant.
The woman has accused Katzav, a married man with grown children, of attacking her on an unspecified date.
Police were seen delivering bundles of records and files to Israel’s chief prosecutor yesterday, seeking an indictment for rape and sexual harassment.
During a three-month investigation, 10 other women stepped forth to charge Katzav with sexually harassing them as far back as the 1990s, when he was a Cabinet member, authorities said.
Katzav, 61, insists he’s being framed by the unnamed woman, who worked at his Jerusalem residence, left his employ more than a year ago, came to the United States, then returned several months ago to tell her sordid story.
Israel’s presidency is a largely ceremonial role, although its holder does preside over the Knesset, or parliament, which is to open its winter session today.
Through his lawyer, Katzav has denied all allegations and has said he’s being blackmailed. He’s also said he will not step down.