Former school principal Malka Leifer receives sentencing for child sexual abuse: A damning verdict on a predator in the education system

Former School Principal Malka Leifer Sentenced for Child Sexual Abuse

By Joseph Dunstan and Tim Callanan

Published on 24th August 2023

In a Melbourne court, former school principal Malka Leifer has been sentenced to 15 years in jail for 18 sexual offenses, including rape and indecent assault. The sentencing marks the end of a long and highly publicized case that has garnered immense public interest. The court proceedings were closely followed by the media, and the sentence has been met with relief and support from survivors and advocates.

Sisters Find Relief and Closure

After the sentencing, sisters Dassi Erlich, Elly Sapper, and Nicole Meyer, who had come forward with abuse allegations against Leifer more than a decade ago, addressed the media. They expressed their relief, gratitude, and validation that justice had finally been served. They spoke of the long and traumatic journey they had endured to reach this moment and extended their support to other abuse survivors, assuring them that they are not alone.

An End to a David vs Goliath Battle

Abuse-survivor advocate Manny Waks, who is currently in Israel, described Leifer’s sentencing as the end of a “David vs Goliath battle.” He commended the survivors for their bravery in coming forward and expressed hope that this sentence would assist in their healing process. He emphasized the message that justice can be achieved, even when the road is long and challenging.

School Apologizes and Offers Support

The Adass Israel School, where Malka Leifer was employed as principal during her offenses, released a statement apologizing to the survivors for the distress they had suffered and the impact it had on their lives. The school further stated that professional counseling would be made available to any member of the community in need. They expressed hope that the sentence would provide a sense of justice and assist in the survivors’ healing process.

The Sentencing and Judge’s Remarks

Judge Gamble, in delivering the sentence, emphasized the severity and predatory nature of Leifer’s offenses. He noted the vulnerability of the victims and Leifer’s calculated manipulation and exploitation of their vulnerability for her own sexual gratification. He described the offenses as having caused lasting harm and recognized the survivors’ courage in coming forward. The court sentenced Leifer to 15 years in prison, with a non-parole period of 11 and a half years.

The Impact of Media Coverage and Leifer’s Custody

The intense media scrutiny surrounding the case was acknowledged by Judge Gamble, who deemed it a form of extra-curial punishment that would be taken into account during the sentencing. He also considered the impact of custody on Leifer, noting her isolation and difficulty in prison due to her specific cultural and religious needs.

A Message of Justice and Support

Despite the hardships endured by the survivors, the sentencing of Malka Leifer brings a sense of justice and closure to their lives. It also sends a powerful message that perpetrators will be pursued and held accountable, regardless of the time it takes to bring them to justice. The support and solidarity extended by the community and advocates signal a hopeful future for survivors and emphasize the importance of speaking out against abuse.

If you or someone you know is affected by child sexual abuse, support is available through respected helplines such as 1800 Respect national helpline, Sexual Assault Counselling Australia, and Bravehearts.