AP 23 Maggio 2009

BRASILIA, Brazil – The Brazilian government can extradite a fugitive rabbi to Israel where he is accused of burning and cutting toddlers as part of a purification ritual, the Supreme Court said Friday.

Elior Noam Hen and several followers allegedly used knives, hammers and other instruments to abuse children 3 and 4 years old. He faces charges of child abuse, violence against minors and conspiracy.

The Court found there was cause for Hen to stand trial for allegedly subjecting eight children to "intense physical and mental suffering because they were supposedly possessed by the devil."

It voted unanimously late Thursday to grant the Brazilian government's request for his extradition, which is expected to be approved by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Attorneys for Hen could not immediately be reached. But the Court rejected defense arguments that Israeli courts do not have jurisdiction since the alleged crimes took place in the West Bank settlement of Beitar Illit in February and March 2008.

Judge Carlos Ayres Britto said Israel has jurisdiction under current treaties between Israel and the Palestine Authority.

Hen's lawyers argued the treaties have expired and their client should not be handed to Israeli authorities.

Hen, who allegedly acted with four other people, was arrested in Brazil in June 2008 after a 45-day manhunt. Police did not say how or when he and his family arrived in the country.

The rabbi allegedly hit the children in the head and face and burned their hands, the court said. One child sustained permanent brain damage and is in a vegetative state.

By MARCO SIBAJA

Source >  Yahoo News | May 22