"I’m pleased to report that as part of a [legal] settlement with Ben Berri, he has published the following letter…"
Originally published at 11:38 PM CDT 7-4-2012
Manny Waks writes:
As many of you would be aware, since launching this public campaign against sexual abuse within the ultra-Orthodox community, my family and I have been the subject of ongoing intimidation and harassment. As I’ve repeatedly stated, despite the many challenges I was determined to remain resolute – for myself, other victims and our community.
I’m pleased to report that as part of a settlement with Ben Berri, he has published the following letter of apology on his Facebook page:
APOLOGY TO MANNY WAKS
On 5th June 2012 I posted a blog on Facebook that criticised Manny Waks’ legitimate attempts to expose the existence of paedophilia in the [Chabad] Yeshivah community and I cast aspersions on his motivation for doing so. My criticisms were baseless and untrue and I sincerely apologise to Mr Waks for the hurt that this must have caused to him and I retract my comments unreservedly.
Ben Berri
APOLOGY TO MR Zephaniah Waks AND MRS Chaya Waks
On 5th June 2012 I posted a blog on Facebook that criticised Mr Zephaniah and Mrs Haya Waks, the parents of Manny Waks alleging that they were aware of paedophilia in the [Chabad] Yeshivah community and that they failed to report such acts to Victoria Police. My criticisms were baseless and untrue and I sincerely apologise to Mr and Mrs Waks for the hurt that this must have caused to them and I retract my comments unreservedly.
Ben Berri
I hope this serves as a reminder to everyone that while debate and discussion is welcome, under no circumstances will intimidation and harassment be tolerated.