Jan Shmela, a resident of the South in his 40s, is the suspect in the 'Prinuk' pet food poisoning incident at branches of the 'Zol Ve Gadol' chain in Jerusalem - which led to the hospitalization of four toddlers from Haredi families.
Shamel is suspected of a series of serious offenses, including intentional poisoning of baby and toddler food, use of poison with the intent to endanger life, theft, and negligent handling of medications.
His detention was extended yesterday until Sunday. The police continue to carry out dozens of necessary investigative actions.
Shamla was arrested this week following a breakthrough in the investigation of the affair, which was revealed two and a half months ago.
According to a report in Kan News, the minutes of the hearing to extend his detention indicate that Shmael has a psychiatric background. At the hearing to extend his detention, his defense attorney claimed that the suspect has a psychiatric background and is dealing with bipolar disorder.
According to the police, near the time of his arrest, the suspect was referred for examination at the Eitanim Psychiatric Hospital and was found fit for arrest.
In addition, the defense attorney claimed that the police have a video that was shown to the suspect, and that is what allegedly links him to the incident.
A representative of the investigating unit, the Zion Area Crime Fighting Unit in the Jerusalem District, said in the hearing: "We claim that the respondent was involved intentionally, and relatively close to the date of the poisoning incident.".
The judge noted in his decision: "The investigative material establishes reasonable suspicion with significant force for the crimes of using poison to endanger life, negligent handling of medications, and theft. The suspect is accused of being involved in the intentional poisoning of food products for babies and toddlers, and the danger posed by him is obvious. Dozens of investigative actions are also required, including disruptive actions.".
