A rabbi has been convicted of sexual assault after Met officers pursued allegations made on international television.

Detectives first launched an investigation after becoming aware of allegations of sexual assault against the rabbi, which were broadcast on Israeli television in November 2022. Officers went to extensive lengths to build the trust and confidence of the victim, who initially did not want to report what happened to her. Through that work, detectives were able to obtain crucial evidence and ultimately bring the perpetrator before the courts.

On Thursday, 12 November, Aaron “Chaim” Halpern, 68 (22.06.1958), of Bridge Lane, Golders Green, was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault following a trial at Harrow Crown Court.

Detective Constable Joshua Dwyer, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to commend the victim for the courage, resilience and determination she has shown throughout this complex investigation. By coming forward and giving evidence, she has helped ensure Halpern is held accountable for his actions.

“We know that reporting sexual offences can be extremely difficult, particularly where the suspect is a prominent or respected figure. No one should feel that a person’s status, influence or standing places them beyond the reach of the law.

“Halpern exploited the trust placed in him as a religious leader to sexually assault a woman who looked to him for guidance and counselling. This was a profound abuse of trust. I hope today’s conviction gives victims the confidence to come forward, knowing they will be listened to, supported and that we will always pursue the evidence wherever it leads.”

The investigation

The investigation began in November 2022 after allegations broadcast on Israeli television were brought to the attention of Met officers. In the programme, an anonymous woman alleged she had been sexually assaulted by Halpern between June and July 2022 at a synagogue and residential address in Golders Green.

Immediately recognising the seriousness of the allegations, Met detectives worked with charities and community partners in the UK and Israel to ensure the complainant had a clear pathway to engage with the investigation.

Despite the victim’s initial wishes not to engage, detectives continued to offer support and in February 2023, the victim identified herself to officers in London. She also provided a video-recorded interview, giving a full account of the offences, prompting the launch of the criminal investigation.

Extensive enquiries were then carried out, including gathering witness evidence and reviewing telephone communications. This crucial work demonstrated that Halpern exploited a position of trust he held as a religious leader and counsellor to sexually assault the victim.

Throughout the investigation, the victim, who was in her 20s at the time of the offending, remained supported by specialist officers.

Halpern was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on 9 March 2023 and on 21 March 2024 as complex enquiries continued. He was later charged with two counts of sexual assault.

Halpern will be sentenced at the same court on 12 January 2027.

The Met remains committed to tackling violence against women and girls and would encourage anyone who believes they may have been affected by Halpern’s behaviour to come forward.

Anyone who comes forward will be listened to, treated with dignity and respect, and supported throughout the investigation process. Victims of sexual offences are also entitled to lifelong anonymity.

Anyone with information or wishing to report concerns can call police on 101 quoting CAD4462/12NOV26. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Confidential support is also available through the following organisations:

• Jewish Women’s Aid (JWA) provides free, confidential and culturally sensitive support for Jewish women and children affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence. Anyone seeking advice or support can visit www.jwa.org.uk, call the helpline on 0808 801 0500, email advice@jwa.org.uk,or access webchat via www.jwa.org.uk/webchat.
• The24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line also offers free phone and online chat for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales: 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.