Israeli chief rabbi suspends himself amid police probe into alleged money laundering scheme
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One of Israel's two chief rabbis has suspended himself amid a police probe into an alleged money laundering scheme.
Yona Metzger's lawyers said Sunday he decided to refrain from carrying out any official roles while a police investigation continues. Metzger was questioned last week over fraud and bribery allegations. Police raided his home and office following a months-long undercover investigation into his financial dealings. He denies the allegations.
Metzger is mere weeks away from ending his 10-year term as the country's chief rabbi for Ashkenazi, or European-descended, Jews. Along with a second chief rabbi from the Sephardic, or Middle Eastern lineage, Metzger has led the country's supreme body for overseeing Jewish services.
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In 2005, Metzger was also questioned over fraud allegations. No charges were filed.