In the background of the abuse case exposed in Eilat and a series of other cases: a report prepared by the Knesset Research and Information Center reveals new data on the phenomenon of abuse of toddlers. Among other things, the document found that in the age groups where the law requiring the installation of cameras does not apply, many of the files were closed due to lack of evidence.
Currently, the law makes it possible to require kindergartens and daycare centers that care for toddlers up to the age of three to install cameras in them. Coalition Chairman MK Ofir Halaw, who is currently promoting an amendment to the law that would expand the obligation to install cameras to older ages, says that the data prove that "the installation of cameras is crucial."
The horror moments of abuse in the Eilat daycare center as documented by the mothers
The document shows a worrying trend: in the past year there has been a 140% jump in the opening of police files in the past year. No less worrying findings emerge from a review of the data from the results of the investigation and the handling of the cases. For example, while the percentage of cases closed between 2018 and 2022 is double in cases of institutions that dealt with ages 3-5 (66%) compared to 0-3 (33%).
Indictment data also show a similar trend of a surge in indictments filed between the ages of 0-3: in 2022, about 54 indictments were filed, compared to only 4 indictments for ages 3-5.
Coalition Chairman Ofir Katz. Promoting legislation to amend the Cameras Law, photo: Oren Ben Hakon
The data show that in a third (34%) of the cases in which parents requested it, an examination of the photographs led to the opening of police investigation files in light of the findings. In private dormitories, the trend is even more worrisome: in 70% of the cases, findings were discovered that led to an investigation.
Ofir Katz, chairman of the collation, said, "The document clearly proves how necessary the change is. My proposal to amend the Camera Law aims to correct the gaps that exist today in the protection of our young children in frameworks. We see that the installation of cameras is crucial. I will continue to fight against anyone who stands in the way of justice. The safety of our children is paramount."
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