search

Freundel prosecutors to mull possible plea bargain

Washington rabbi, accused of voyeurism, could face up to 6 years in prison; second hearing called for January 16

Rabbi Barry Freundel, former spiritual leader of Kesher Israel (YouTube/Kesher Israel, screen capture)
Rabbi Barry Freundel, former spiritual leader of Kesher Israel (YouTube/Kesher Israel, screen capture)

Prosecutors investigating the case of Barry Freundel, the Washington rabbi accused of voyeurism, told a judge that they need more time before they can decide whether to offer a plea deal.

At a hearing Wednesday in DC Superior Court, prosecutors said they are still determining the total number of Freundel’s victims, the Washington Post reported.

Freundel, 62, was arrested in October for allegedly using hidden cameras to spy on women, including those whose conversions he was overseeing, while they were in the mikvah, or ritual bath. He has been charged with six counts of misdemeanor voyeurism and faces up to six years in prison.

Another hearing is scheduled for January 16.

Assistant US Attorney Amy Zubrensky said that her office is creating a website with information about the case in order to encourage any other Freundel victims to come forward.

Freundel has been suspended without pay from Kesher Israel, the modern Orthodox congregation he has led for more than two decades. He has also been suspended from Towson University, where he taught Judaic studies.

read more:
Never miss breaking news on Israel
Get notifications to stay updated
You're subscribed
image
Register for free
and continue reading
Registering also lets you comment on articles and helps us improve your experience. It takes just a few seconds.
Already registered? Enter your email to sign in.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Or Continue with
By registering you agree to the terms and conditions. Once registered, you’ll receive our Daily Edition email for free.
Register to continue
Or Continue with
Log in to continue
Sign in or Register
Or Continue with
check your email
Check your email
We sent an email to you at .
It has a link that will sign you in.