Former President Katzav Gets 24 Hour Furlough

Former President of Israel Moshe Katzav was granted his first 24 hour furlough from Maasiyahu prison on Monday.

Katzav, who claims he is innocent and never committed the crimes he was convicted of, was sentenced to 7 years in jail for two counts of rape of former employees. He has petitioned President Shimon Peres for a pardon, to no avail.

Having served a quarter of his sentence, Katzav is now eligible for 24 hour furloughs every month, which is considered to be part of the rehabilitation process.

Initially, during the furlough he is under house arrest, but he will be allowed to attend shul.

If the furloughs go well, their lengths of time will be extended, and he will no longer be under house arrest during the leaves.

Katzav had one leave, a year and half ago for 8 hours, to go to his son's wedding.