Brazil OKs extradition of rabbi accused in Israel

Brazil OKs extradition of rabbi accused in Israel

By Associated Press
Friday, May 22, 2009

BRASILIA, Brazil — Brazil’s Supreme Court has approved the extradition of a fugitive rabbi accused in Israel of abusing children as part of a purification ritual.

Elior Noam Hen and several followers allegedly burned, cut and otherwise harmed children between 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.

Hen was arrested last year in Brazil after he turned up with his wife and four children.

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