Eyal Golan detained in underage sex scandal
After week of rumors, court clears for publication that famous Israeli singer is suspected of statutory rape of underage female fans. Golan detained for questioning along with father
Eyal Golan
is the "famous singer"
whose alleged sex scandal with underage female fans has been topping headlines in Israel
in recent days, but barred from publication by court order.
Wednesday, after being taken in for questioning, Golan himself permitted his name to be published effectively ending the gag order. Nonetheless, his case has highlighted both the sterility of such court orders – which have no control over social media – and the decedent and at times lawless lifestyle of Israel's Mediterranean music scene's stars.
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Despite the countless rumors flooding the nation regarding the "singer and underage girls scandal" – as it has been dubbed while the court order was in place – Golan was only taken into questioning for the first time Wednesday and has yet to be charged.
He is suspected of multiple counts of statutory rape as well as soft drug usage with minors. During his investigation, Golan allegedly claimed to not have known the girls in question were underage; Golan also denied claims he had used drugs.
Golan was detained for questioning together with his father, a public relations manager, an employee and an additional singer whose name has still not been cleared for publication.
Golan's father is also suspected of sexual intercourse with underage girls as well as organizing meetings for young female fans with his son. Golan's hotel room, where his is currently residing, as well as his father's house, were both searched.
On Wednesday morning, Golan's representatives announced that he would suspend himself from the judging panel of the Rising Star show – a musical competition aired on the Keshet concession holder – as well as putting on hold his own musical competition program – Eyal Golan is calling you – aired on Channel 24.
Golan's fans and family members expressed disbelief at the allegations. "There is a difference between liking young women and going (out) with minors. This is something that makes no sense for those that know him."
