Authorities say the investigation initially focused on a money laundering network operating between Brooklyn, Deal and Israel. The network allegedly laundered millions of dollars through Jewish charities controlled by rabbis in New York and New Jersey.
Over 40 people were arrested Thursday including three mayors, two state lawmakers and five rabbis. Rabbi Eliahu Ben Haim with Congregation Ohel Yaacob and Rabbi Edmond Nahum with The Deal Synagogue are two of the rabbis that were arrested and charged with money laundering. FBI and IRS agents also removed several boxes from The Deal Yeshiva, a school that educates Sephardic Jewish children.
“I’m saddened and troubled by this and hope that this is an isolated incident and that if found guilty they’re prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” said Howard Gases, Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Monmouth County.
The synagogues declined to comment on the investigation.
By: Janet Fried
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