Criminal8/24/2026

Arrest in Domestic Violence Case Led Police to Suspect Drug Trafficking

A Beit She'an resident in his 50s was arrested in early July on suspicion of beating and threatening his wife. During an analysis of his phone, police discovered correspondence that investigators say points to dozens of drug deals.

Key facts

•Court: Tiberias Magistrate's Court
•Defendant: a Beit She'an resident, about 50 years old
•Arrest: early July
•Alleged drug trafficking: dozens of cases
•Minor buyer: about 17 years old
•Two separate indictments were filed

How the Investigation Began

The man, who worked as a salesperson at a well-known liquor store in the city, was initially suspected of domestic violence. The phone was examined to find correspondence between the spouses and possible evidence of violence. According to police digital forensics expert Kfir Avitan, there were initially no indications of a connection between the case and drugs.

What Was Discovered on the Phone

According to police, the examination of the information uncovered extensive correspondence with people suspected of being drug buyers. Investigators believe the defendant used his job and daily contact with customers to arrange deals: some were carried out directly in the store and others elsewhere. Police say they documented dozens of cases, including the alleged sale of cannabis to a boy aged about 17.

Separate Charge of Violence

According to a separate indictment, the dispute between the spouses erupted after the wife received a message from a man via Facebook. The defendant allegedly threw her phone, and when she tried to retrieve it, he struck her in the face with his fists and knocked her to the ground. The woman sustained bruises to her face and leg, as well as scratches to her neck; in addition, the husband allegedly repeatedly threatened during the preceding months to kill and bury her.

What Charges Were Filed

Two separate indictments were filed in the Tiberias Magistrate's Court—one concerning the domestic violence incidents and the other concerning the alleged drug trafficking. The man is charged with assault causing injuries and threatening his wife, as well as repeated trafficking in dangerous drugs, conspiracy to commit a felony, and inducing a minor to use drugs. The source does not report a judicial decision or sentence; the described events remain allegations contained in the indictment.

What this means for you

Investigative materials from one criminal case may lead to separate charges if indications of other offenses emerge during a lawful examination of digital information. Filing an indictment begins a judicial proceeding, but does not in itself prove the defendant's guilt.

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