Escorted by dozens of followers, Rabbi Yoshiyahu Pinto on Tuesday, 9 Iyar arrived in court for a sentencing hearing. The case deals with bribery and fraud charges against the rav, along with charges of interfering with an ongoing investigation. Ultimately, Rabbi Pinto agreed to become a state witness, plead guilty to lesser charges for a minimal jail term. The state hopes to use the rabbi�s testimony to convict former Israel Police senior commander Menashe Arbiv.

Four of the rav�s doctors testified, explaining the rabbi�s complicated medical situation to the court. The prosecution wants the rabbi�s medical documents verified, calling for jail time despite his reported illness.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)