Former Netanyahu security aide arrested in US sting operation
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- Former Netanyahu security chief arrested in Maryland in undercover child exploitation sting.
- Authorities say he used online platforms to contact a person he believed was a minor.
US authorities have arrested Matthew Mahl, a former security chief for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on charges of soliciting a minor and attempting to obtain child sexual abuse material.
Mahl, 47, who also served as a lieutenant with the Washington Metropolitan Police Department, was detained in Maryland following a sting operation conducted by the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigation documents state Mahl allegedly communicated for about one month with an undercover detective posing as a 15-year-old boy on Reddit and through text messages.
Authorities said he sent explicit sexual content during the exchanges, despite knowing the supposed victim was underage.
Law enforcement officials said he was arrested immediately after arriving at a prearranged location where he believed he would meet the minor for sexual activity.
Mahl faces charges of soliciting a minor and attempting to obtain child sexual abuse material. He remains in custody as the case proceeds through the court system.
Officials said the investigation is ongoing and further details may emerge during legal proceedings.
Mahl previously worked in a security role linked to the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and served within the Washington Metropolitan Police Department.
Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges or individuals are under investigation.
