That would be a terrible shock.

Is it permissible to call Gil Ofarim a « criminal »?

Image: RTL

As a reminder: Gil Ofarim once claimed to have been treated antisemitically by a hotel employee. He later admitted that these accusations were untrue, apologized in court, and the proceedings were dropped upon payment of a €10,000 fine.

Since there was no legally binding conviction, Ofarim is not considered to have a criminal record. This is precisely where the discussion begins: What happens if Ariel nevertheless publicly calls him a « criminal »? Could this have legal repercussions for her?

Media lawyer assesses the situation

Media lawyer Christian Solmecke commented on this to Watson. His assessment is nuanced.

According to Solmecke, many courts would rule in a way that reflects everyday life and takes into account that the legal distinction between crimes and misdemeanors is hardly known in everyday language. Many people simply use the term « criminal » to refer to someone who has done something wrong.

« In this context, a court could therefore also consider Ariel’s statement as a permissible expression of opinion, » the lawyer explains. Another point is particularly relevant here.