Reply To: Lessons Learned from the False Arrest of the Innocent Tzadik in Flatbush

Besalel: It is a major principle both in Torah/Halacha as well at in secular law that in case of doubt we err on the side of innocence. Better to not punish a guilty if the risk, otherwise, is we might punish an innocent man. Innocent until proven guilty.

Furthermore, without there having been a video of the incident, it’s highly likely the innocent Tzadik would be rotting in prison for a year pending trial in such a he-said/she-said trial, considering how the American court system currently treats that.

And another point. How many women do you think are cognizant of the Kitzur or the reason the Kitzur gives or the other examples of whom not to walk between? Close to none. So this concern of them being offended is highly misplaced. (And that’s in addition to the earlier point that even had they known most very frum women still wouldn’t be offended. And the additional point that even if any would be it isn’t a factor.)