Jerusalem Pride killer jailed for life
A man who killed a 16-year-old girl at a Pride festival in Israel has been jailed.
Yishai Schlissel has been sentenced to life in prison, after he killed Shira Banki at Jerusalem Pride last year.
Schlissel has been told he will face life in jail with an additional 31 years and must also pay compensation to the victim’s family.
Shira Banki was stabbed six times with a kitchen knife and died some time later in hospital.
In other news:
- The FBI and local police are to investigate as an assault on a trans man at an Orlando victims’ fundraiser
- Istanbul Pride has been called off after organisers cite security issues and Government ban
- Hillary Clinton makes surprise appearance at New York Pride
The attack took place just three weeks after he was released from prison after serving a 10 year sentence. This was also related to an attack at Jerusalem Pride, which took place in 2005.
Schlissel claimed that the reason for both attacks was because he was an ultra orthodox Jew.
Sarah Kala-Meir, the Director of Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance, said the term was another milestone in the fight against hatred and violence towards the LGBT community.
She said: “Unfortunately, Schlissel’s term of imprisonment cannot heal our open bleeding wounds, nor bring back to life Shira Banki.
“Having said that, we derive comfort from the court’s acknowledgment in the need to condemn people like Schlissel from our society, a major step towards a better world.
“Stand with us as we support Shira’s family and loved ones in attendance at the march. The LGBTQ community of Jerusalem will honor Shira Banki, the victims of Orlando, and victims of violence and homophobia around the globe.’ The parade is scheduled for 21 July.”
