Israel paramedic group founder mired in sex abuse scandal dies

Yehuda Meshi-Zahav, a prominent member of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community who served as a symbol of co-existence before his reputation came crashing down in a series of sexual abuse allegations, has died at the age of 62 (Oded Balilty/AP)

Yehuda Meshi-Zahav, a prominent member of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community who founded a volunteer paramedic service before his reputation came crashing down in a series of sexual abuse allegations, has died at the age of 62.

Mr Meshi-Zahav was admitted to hospital last year following a suicide attempt as accusers came forward to allege years of sexual abuse after he was awarded the Israel Prize for Lifetime Achievement, the country’s highest civilian honour.