Family of Yuval Castelman Appeals for Justice After Fatal Shooting Incident
The family of Yuval Castelman, who tragically lost his life during a terrorist attack in Jerusalem last November, has taken significant legal action by filing an appeal with the Legal Advisor to the Government, Gali Beharev Miara. The appeal seeks to reopen the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Castelman's death, particularly focusing on the alleged misconduct of police officers involved in the case. Castelman, an esteemed attorney and former police officer, was shot by reservist Aviad Frija after he bravely intervened during the attack, attempting to save lives. Despite his clear intentions, he was shot multiple times, raising serious questions about the actions of law enforcement during and after the incident.
Attorney Daniel Haklai, representing the Castelman family, emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "Decent police should open an investigation into the horrible death, but the Jerusalem police did not do so. On the contrary, there was a cover-up of the investigation." The family contends that the police failed to conduct a thorough investigation and even ignored critical evidence, including video footage that could have clarified the events leading to Yuval's death.
Allegations of Police Misconduct and Cover-Up
In their appeal, the Castelman family alleges that Corporal Nadav Kogan, a police officer involved in the initial investigation, provided misleading information and failed to act appropriately. They claim that Kogan's actions contributed to a systematic obstruction of justice, preventing a full examination of the facts surrounding Yuval's death. The family insists that Kogan should have initiated a comprehensive criminal investigation, especially given the evidence suggesting that Yuval was shot while unarmed and raising his hands in surrender.
The family's concerns were echoed by Dr. Alon Schwartz, who treated Yuval and refuted claims made by police that they were unaware of bullet wounds. Furthermore, a police officer who witnessed the incident described how he shouted for Frija to cease fire upon seeing Yuval's non-threatening posture. The Castelman family hopes that their appeal will prompt a thorough investigation into the conduct of the police and ensure justice for Yuval Castelman.
