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How to File a Complaint Against a Police Officer — Step by Step in Petach Tikva
Anyone who believes they were harmed by police conduct can file a complaint with MAHASH (Police Investigations Department) or the Public Complaints Commissioner — free, no lawyer required.
About Petach Tikva
Petach Tikva hosts an active Israeli-Ethiopian community with a concentration of senior professionals and academics, in part through collaboration with the Olim Beyahad organisation. The city offers a variety of apartments and purchase options at competitive prices for the Sharon region.
Two Complaint Bodies
MAHASH (Police Investigations Department) handles suspected criminal misconduct — assault, excessive force, bribery. It operates under Justice Ministry oversight.
The Public Complaints Commissioner is an independent external body for non-criminal misconduct — rudeness, poor judgment, delayed response.
Filing with both is often advisable.
Step-by-Step
Step 1 — Collect evidence. Officer name and badge number, exact date/time/location, witness names and phones, photos or video (legal in public spaces), any documents received, and a same-day medical record if you were injured.
Step 2 — File with MAHASH. Online at mahash.gov.il (fastest) or in person at a MAHASH office in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, or Be'er Sheva. Time limit: 30 days (extensions available with justification).
Step 3 — File with the Ombudsman. Online or by registered mail at ombudsman.gov.il. The Ombudsman must notify you of any decision and its reasoning.
Free support from TEBEKA. TEBEKA provides free complaint drafting, representation before MAHASH, and case monitoring. Call 1-800-20-20-16 or visit tebeka.org.il.
Realistic Outcomes
Most files are closed without action, but documented complaints build a record. Two incidents against the same officer can trigger internal affairs review. Criminal charges are rare but possible with strong evidence. Civil lawsuits are a parallel option for damages.
Ethiopian community in Petach Tikva
- Community population
- ~7,000
- Share of city
- ~4%
- Main neighbourhoods
- כפר גנים, קריית ספיר
- Community services
- עולים ביחד, ENP
More rights in Petach Tikva
This right in other cities
FAQ — Petach Tikva
- How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Petach Tikva?
- The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Petach Tikva numbers approximately ~7,000 residents — around ~4% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: כפר גנים, קריית ספיר.
- How do I claim How to File a Complaint Against a Police Officer — Step by Step in Petach Tikva?
- Contact Tebeka — they operate nationally including in Petach Tikva. For support: עולים ביחד, ENP.
- What community support is available in Petach Tikva for this right?
- In Petach Tikva, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: עולים ביחד, ENP.
Related rights
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.
Legal Protection From Domestic Violence — Guide for Ethiopian-Israeli Women
Any woman suffering domestic violence can receive a protection order the same day — regardless of visa status, length of marriage, or financial situation. The state must provide emergency housing and living expenses.
Rights Against Employment Discrimination
Every employee in Israel — including new immigrants and Ethiopian-Israelis — is protected against discrimination based on race, nationality, origin, and more.