Orthodox rabbi held over sex assault claims

 
p6 v2 21.02 Rabbi Halpern Chaim Note- Picture taken off internet - http://www.torahway.org.uk/notices/150-haazinu.jpg
Justin Davenport21 February 2013
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An orthodox Jewish rabbi has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault after a series of claims allegedly involving up to 30 women.

Chaim Halpern , 54, the head of the Golders Green synagogue, was arrested yesterday on suspicion of sexual assault and perverting the course of justice and was being questioned at a north London police station today.

Three other men were also arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice.

Rabbi Halpern stepped down from a position as a religious judge last year after accusations that he had engaged in “inappropriate” contact with at least one woman.

The orthodox community in north London has been “convulsed” over the claims for months, according to the Jewish Chronicle.

It has reported that a group of London rabbis alerted officials to complaints about marriage counselling sessions offered by Rabbi Halpern.

One report suggested about 30 women, most of whom went to the rabbi for counselling, have made allegations.

Rabbi Halpern has maintained his innocence, saying he has acted in accordance with Jewish law.

Scotland Yard refused to comment.

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