Moshe Katsav Requests Passover Prison Leave

Former President Moshe Katzav requested leave from prison on Sunday in order to spend time with his family for the Jewish holiday of Passover.

Katzav, who petitioned the Lod District Court, is serving a seven-year sentence for rape and sexual assault.

His last furlough from prison was on March 16, for the holiday of Purim, but in his request, the former president claimed “special circumstances” in which prisoners may apply for furloughs.

Katzav petitioned the district court because the Israel Prison Service denied his request for another furlough, citing a rule stating the minimum period of time required between vacations.

Under the law, he is not technically eligible for more “vacation” time from prison until at least a month after Passover.