David Edri
Photo: Dudi Vaaknin
The Jerusalem Magistrate's Court convicted David Edri, a former police horseman, of assault Tuesday, after finding him guilty of intentionally trampling over a settler with his horse during the 2006 eviction of the West Bank settlement of Amona.
The eviction of Amona took place in February 2006 and was the scene of violent clashes between settlers and security forces, which left hundreds hurt.
Case History
Security forces take over nine homes at illegal West Bank outpost following hours of violent clashes; more than 200 hurt, including 80 security officers; MKs Eitam, Eldad also wounded
According to the case file, the police deployed mass forces at Amona, including officers of the Mounted Police. During an attempt to disperse the riot, Edri galloped towards Yehuda Etzion, one of the protestors, and trampled him with his horse.
As a result, Etzion suffered multiple contusions, a scalp laceration and internal bleeding in his leg.
The court ruled that Edri's actions constituted exercising excessive force, especially since the act was aimed at a single person.
Etzion was awarded $6,000 in restitution, as part of a civil proceeding, but according to the details of the settlement, he was to return the money should Edri be convicted.
"I have no personal animosity towards him," said Etzion, "But this kind of a police officer must be punished in a way that would deter others, and make the manner in which you treat people who are evacuated from their home, clear."
Edri's attorney told Ynet that he was disappointed with the ruling and said he will appeal the verdict.
Internal Affairs Bureau prosecutor Moshe Saada, however, was pleased: "The defendant is an officer with the Israeli Police Department and his action trampled over the rule of law.
"The court sent a message to the police, that even when dispersing a riot, not all measures can be used."
Orit Stroch of the Yesha Council, said the group plans to file a High Court motion demanding Edri's dismissal.