Disgraced minister's son arrested after motorcycle crash
Court extends remand of Barak Hirchson after he crashes motorcycle while driving under influence with twice legal blood alcohol levels. Girlfriend in critical condition, suffers severe brain damage
Hirchson junior allegedly caused an accident while driving his motorcycle under the influence of alcohol. His girlfriend, who was his passenger, is in critical condition as a result.
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Police arrested Barak Hirchson on Sunday night and are charging him with driving under the influence and aggravated battery. The Tel Aviv Magistrate's Court remanded Hirchson for four days.
Barak Hirchson in court (Photo: Moti Kimchi)
During the remand hearing, a police representative noted that Hirchson, who has a license since 2002, has logged 25 traffic offenses, including running a read light. In 2006 he was caught driving under the influence and his license was revoked for 33 months.
He added that information provided by the hospital reveals that Hirchson's blood alcohol level at the time of Sunday night's accident was twice the permitted amount.
Justice Tzahi Uziel noted in his ruling that the suspect "caused the accident while driving a passenger under the influence of alcohol. The investigation file indicates that there is enough evidence. It is enough to refer to the suspect's confession and the memo regarding the suspect's blood alcohol levels."
During the hearing police also revealed that Hirchson had admitted to drinking two alcoholic beverages before he got on the motorcycle.
Hirchson's attorney sought to have his client released from police custody, as he believes that his client only presents a danger as a driver, and as police revoked his license, he could no longer be seen as a danger or disrupt the investigation.
The scene of the accident (Photo: Dana Kopel)
The police claimed that there were concerns the investigation would be sabotaged should he attempt to speak with the injured passenger. They also said he still presents a danger to those around him.
Barak and his 24-year-old girlfriend were thrown off his motorcycle when he crashed into the sidewalk. His girlfriend's helmet was broken in two and she was critically wounded. The hospital noted that she is suffering from severe brain damage and that her life is in danger.
Aviel Magnezi contributed to the report
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