YUVALL KEREN SHOCKS MIDDLESEX WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CRIME AT SOUTHGATE SYNAGOGUE

Yuval Keren, aged 56 and residing in Lyndhurst Gardens, Pinner, has become the focus of a serious criminal investigation following disturbing allegations of possessing and distributing indecent images of children. Keren, who previously served as a rabbi at Southgate Progressive Synagogue, was arrested in connection with these allegations and is now facing significant legal consequences.

In July 2022, law enforcement authorities received a tip-off indicating that a user was uploading suspicious and potentially illegal images to Dropbox, an online storage platform. This tip led to an investigation that ultimately resulted in Keren's arrest at his residence. During the search, officers confiscated multiple electronic devices, which were later examined for evidence.

The police investigation uncovered a horrifying collection of digital material: a total of 1,694 indecent images of children. Among these, 189 were classified as Category A, representing the most severe and extreme forms of abuse. The images dated back to 2010, revealing a disturbing pattern of viewing and possibly sharing vile content over a period of more than a decade. This long history of viewing such material underscores the severity of the case and the extent of Keren’s involvement.

On October 11, Keren appeared in court and pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including three counts of making indecent photographs of children, one count of possessing extreme pornographic images, and one count of possessing prohibited images of children. His guilty plea marked a significant development in the case, highlighting his acknowledgment of the criminal conduct.

Subsequently, on December 13, Keren was brought before Amersham Crown Court for sentencing. The court sentenced him to 20 months in prison, but this sentence was suspended for two years, meaning he will not serve time unless he commits another offense within that period. As part of his sentence, Keren is required to complete 40 hours of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behavior and 180 hours of unpaid community work.

Additionally, Keren will be subject to a 10-year registration on the Sex Offenders Register, a measure designed to monitor and manage his conduct post-sentence. He was also issued a five-year sexual harm prevention order, restricting his activities and contact to prevent any further harm.

Following his arrest and subsequent legal proceedings, Keren was immediately suspended from his role as a rabbi. He no longer holds any position within the religious community, and the case has sent shockwaves through the Middlesex area, raising concerns about safeguarding and the responsibilities of community leaders.