Israeli With Huge Harem Accused of Rape, Incest

Israeli police have arrested polygamist cult leader Goel Ratzon on suspicion of enslavement, rape, and incest. They’ve also detained 17 of his “wives” and 37 of his children for questioning; police say some of the children are also his grandchildren. According to some reports, Ratzon has a total of 32 wives and 89 children. Two of the wives were arrested after questioning, on suspicion that they aided Ratzon.

“This is an affair the likes of which has never been seen in Israel,” the police commissioner said. Ratzon was arrested Tuesday, and he still hasn’t been formally charged, reports Ynet. Police are keeping Ratzon away from cameras, because they believe he would try to send secret messages to his wives, ordering them to commit suicide. Ratzon has denied all wrongdoing, saying his “wives” were free to go at any time. (More Goel Ratzon stories.)