Police re-open investigation into Adass Israel school over Leifer

The ultra-Orthodox Melbourne school is suspected of helping its former principal attempt to evade justice over child abuse charges.

Police have re-opened an investigation into the school that was allegedly involved in former principal and convicted rapist Malka Leifer fleeing Australia. 

A probe into the conduct of others at the Adass Israel School in Elsternwick was launched in 2015 but suspended while the years-long criminal investigation into Leifer was underway. 

Victoria Police confirmed on Saturday that the Sexual Crimes Squad had resumed an investigation into possible offences linked to the ultra-orthodox Jewish girls' school.  

 Leifer was found guilty in April of 18 sexual offences relating to two former students between 2003 and 2007. She is yet to be sentenced.

Leifer flew to Israel in 2008 shortly after allegations against her were first raised. 

Following a lengthy extradition process, she was brought back to Australia in 2021 to stand trial on charges for offences that occurred while she was principal at the school. 

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Police re-open investigation into school's role in helping Malka Leifer flee Australia (ABC)

Photo: The Adass Israel School is under investigation for helping Malka Leifer evade justice