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How to File a Complaint Against a Police Officer — Step by Step in Ma'alot-Tarshiha
Anyone who believes they were harmed by police conduct can file a complaint with MAHASH (Police Investigations Department) or the Public Complaints Commissioner — free, no lawyer required.
About Ma'alot-Tarshiha
Ma'alot-Tarshiha is a mixed (Jewish-Arab) city in the Upper Galilee, with a small Israeli-Ethiopian community. Its accessible real-estate prices, green surroundings and high quality of life make it an attractive residential option.
Two Complaint Bodies
MAHASH (Police Investigations Department) handles suspected criminal misconduct — assault, excessive force, bribery. It operates under Justice Ministry oversight.
The Public Complaints Commissioner is an independent external body for non-criminal misconduct — rudeness, poor judgment, delayed response.
Filing with both is often advisable.
Step-by-Step
Step 1 — Collect evidence. Officer name and badge number, exact date/time/location, witness names and phones, photos or video (legal in public spaces), any documents received, and a same-day medical record if you were injured.
Step 2 — File with MAHASH. Online at mahash.gov.il (fastest) or in person at a MAHASH office in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, or Be'er Sheva. Time limit: 30 days (extensions available with justification).
Step 3 — File with the Ombudsman. Online or by registered mail at ombudsman.gov.il. The Ombudsman must notify you of any decision and its reasoning.
Free support from TEBEKA. TEBEKA provides free complaint drafting, representation before MAHASH, and case monitoring. Call 1-800-20-20-16 or visit tebeka.org.il.
Realistic Outcomes
Most files are closed without action, but documented complaints build a record. Two incidents against the same officer can trigger internal affairs review. Criminal charges are rare but possible with strong evidence. Civil lawsuits are a parallel option for damages.
About Ma'alot-Tarshiha
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