UOJ posts the following email from Phil Jacobs of the Baltimore Times:
During the investigation of the late Rabbi Ephraim Shapiro, the name coming up perhaps "second" in the conversations was more often than not that of Rabbi Moshe Eisemann.
I would like to move ahead with the investigation of this Ner Israel rabbi and teacher.
However, the sensitive, triggering nature of this sort of interview process is understandably difficult.
For anyone who would come forward and consent to an interview, I would guarantee anonymity. And as I have with the survivors of Rabbi Shapiro and Shmuel Zev Juravel, I have absolutely shared the articles giving the survivors license to edit prior to publication. That will continue with anyone who comes forward in the Eisemann case.My concern is the safety of the survivors. Whatever it takes to tell their stories and maintain that safety is given highest priority.
I can be reached at 410-468-2711 or [email protected]
I have a source who was close to Rabbi Eisemann and defended him vociferously several months ago when initial allegations against him surfaced. Today he tells me most of the allegations are true.
Rabbi Eisemann still lives on the Ner Israel campus but does not teach in the school. That does not stop children from visiting his house and does not prevent his access in other ways to children. Yet the leaders of Ner Israel seem to think they have done enough to protect the children under their care and other children, as well.
Baltimore's rabbis did not go to the police. Rabbi Eisemann is still free and able to abuse.
What type of message does this send to Rabbi Eisemann's victims? To others who have suffered abuse at the hands of different rabbis? It says your life matters less than the life of the rabbi abuser. It also says, "Do not call police."
There is a rot in the haredi world. It is pervasive and deep. It destroys children. It destroys souls. And it carries the hechsher of the rabbis who lead us. Kosher poison, courtesy of an Orthodox rabbi near you.