Dear Students,
We are writing to you regarding a complex situation we are currently dealing with.
Recently, a student studying at the University was convicted of serious sexual offenses against his former partner. The offenses were committed off campus and were unrelated to his studies, and the court sentenced him to imprisonment. The student has recently appealed his sentence and is currently awaiting the outcome of the appeal. At this stage, no restrictions have been imposed on his movement, including attending classes on campus.
The Hebrew University views criminal behavior of any kind with utmost severity, especially offenses involving sexual harassment, and unequivocally condemns such conduct. This is a grave case that is incompatible with the values of our academic community.
Since the offenses were not committed at the University or in the framework of university activities, the University regulations do not allow us to prohibit the student from coming to campus. Nevertheless, we invite anyone who feels uncomfortable or threatened to contact the Office for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment, to speak and be heard, and to engage in an open and supportive dialogue in order to receive guidance, support, and a discreet response.
It is important for us to emphasize that the University learns from cases such as these and is continuously engaged in examining existing norms and striving, within the framework of the law, to improve. We are sending you this letter out of a deep commitment to your personal safety, and we will continue to act so that each and every one of you can feel safe and protected within the University environment.
Office for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment:
Mobile: 054-8820889
Email : hatrada@savion.huji.ac.il
Yours sincerely,
Tamir Sheafer, President
Oron Shagrir, Rector